Walsall manager Jon Whitney has spoken to the press following Saturday's defeat to League One leaders Blackburn Rovers and discussed the future of on-loan West Brom defender Jack Fitzwater, revealing that he is keen to retain his services next season.
Fitzwater, who is out of contract in the summer, joined the Saddlers on Deadline Day following the termination of his loan with Forest Green Rovers, and has immediately established himself in the first team, notching his first club goal at the weekend.
Jon, who was speaking via the Express & Star, said; "Jack is player we’re looking at long term. He is out of contract in the summer. But we have also spoken about extending the loan into next season as well. I’d like to get the group together, because the more we work together, the more we’ll reap the benefits going into pre-season and next season.
"It’s also nice that in midfield and up front we have got Kieron, Ama, George, Maz, all contracted. We have got that young, vibrant group who we want to play together and really get that understanding.
"That has been a main aim for myself and the board. A lot has been said about loans. But long term, we want permanent additions. Each game we play now with that unit in place can only be a good thing moving forward."