Earlier this evening, Walsall manager Dean Smith, first-team coach Richard O'Kelly, goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler and Head Physio Jon Whitney took part in a 'Meet the Manager' session in the Savoy Lounge at Banks's Stadium. You can see a round-up of events below.
At tonight's meet the manager evening - or should I say meet the management evening - as besides manager Dean Smith, there was Richard O'Kelly, Neil Cutler and Jon Whitney in attendance to answer questions from around 40 supporters.
A variety of topics were covered by the foursome; The overriding view from the team was that this group of players have come back fitter than ever before and are very driven for the campaign ahead.
Neil Cutler remarked that there is genuine competition for the keepers jersey this term with Neil Etheridge and Craig MacGillivray both in serious contention and the decision could go either way for the big kick-off against Oldham, he also noted the progress Liam Roberts had made too.
Dean Smith, when pressed regarding the much talked about need for a new striker, was quick to explain that there already six-or-so players in striking positions, but did concede that Amadou Bakayoko is not ready for consideration at the moment.
Richard O'Kelly gave interesting insights into his role coaching and motivating the younger players to help push them through to the first team squad.
Physio Jon Whitney was enthusiastic about the progress Tom Bradshaw had made with his summer and complimented him on his efforts to get fit after his injury problems.
There were not any really contentious questions submitted to the team which meant that host Dale Moon as compare and pre-set question overlord wasn't really overworked. There was also ample time set aside afterwards for the supporters to quiz the panel privately and sort out photos and autographs.
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