BATTLING IS KEY FOR ROMAINE

WHILE it is generally expected that attacking midfielders contribute their fair share of goals, Walsall boss Dean Smith says it is Romaine Sawyers’ willingness to do the dirty work that makes him invaluable.

Sawyers’ recent displays have brought criticism from Saddlers fans but after scoring his first goal since November against Swindon on Tuesday, Smith is hoping the 23-year-old can kick on.

“He divides opinion at times and we think he is a terrific talent, but the talent needs to score more goals and create more assists,” explained Smith.

“He does a great job for the team without the ball which sometimes goes unnoticed.”