Earlier this evening Walsall Football Club first-team manager Dean Smith took part in a 'Meet the Manager' event at the Saddlers Club. Below are excerpts of what he had to say.Smith doesn't believe that the loss of then club captain Andy Butler has weakened the team, especially after the signing of James O'Connor, coupled with the retention of Andy Taylor, James Chambers and the promotion of Rico Henry to the first-team.
Dean also indicated that he was disappointed by Butler's lack of goals throughout the season.
Smith revealed that trialist Danny Webber was recommended to the club by Andy Taylor.
Dean spoke to an agent last week regarding a possible signing, however the agent was seeking in the region of £25,000 for his services, which, for obvious reasons, Smith declined to entertain.
The club had the opportunity to re-visit Trinidad & Tobago this summer but declined the invitation.
Smith considers summer signing Jordan Cook to be an out-and-out striker who can play wide, rather than an attacking midfielder.
Dean has said he is "surprised" that trialist Mathieu Manset has returned to France. Dean is under the impression that Mathieu would like to sign for the club, but believes that he is being led by his agent. Negotiations are ongoing, but at a slow rate.