Walsall defender Paul Downing has spoken to the press ahead of this weekend's Sky Bet League One clash with Colchester United, and has backed fellow central defender Dean Holden to keep his place in the first-team following the veterans good start to the season.Speaking to the Express & Star, Paul said; “You have to give him massive credit. I had a year out of the game early on in my career and I know what he’s done is impressive because it is very difficult to come back.
“It just shows the kind of character he has and I'm delighted for him. He is playing really well at the back and I'm sure he will be itching to keep his place.
“He will want to make it as hard as possible for anyone coming back in to get the shirt off him.”