In the latest of his weekly columns, Scott Brotherton takes a look at Walsall manager Dean Smith's options in the summer, as several first-team players reach the end of their contracts;It’s coming to that time of year when Dean Smith will be trying to tie down his key players to new contracts. Captain Andy Butler and leading scorer Craig Westcarr will be amongst those right at the top of his list.
The Saddlers boss will also want to keep hold of loan stars Febian Brandy and Milan Lalkovic, as they have been a real threat on the flanks this season.
But what about the fringe players who haven’t managed to establish themselves in the starting lineup? Deano will have to make a decision on whether they should stay or go.
I feel that some players have had their time at the Bescot. Take Ashley Hemmings, now on loan at Burton Albion. He started this and last season promisingly but gradually slipped out of the team with some poor performances. To me it is clear that his future doesn't lie at Walsall Football Club.
Troy Hewitt’s days might also be numbered. I am a fan of the striker but he has had eight starts and over 20 sub appearances, and never set the world alight. He works hard though and with Michael Ngoo heading back to Liverpool we may need him as backup.
However there are some extremely tricky decisions to make with players like James McQuilkin and Nicky Featherstone. At the moment I feel it is 50/50 whether they will be handed a new deal in the summer.
The two midfielders seem to be going in the opposite direction. Featherstone hasn’t figured since Sam Mantom’s ban and is slowly falling behind McQuilkin, who is becoming a very influential substitute.
McQuilkin also made his first start in the recent 1-0 loss to Port Vale, so it is obvious he is making an impression on the manager as well. The question remains though, are both men worthy of new contracts?
There is almost always a mass exodus of Saddlers players at the end of a campaign but this year could be a bit different. One thing is certain, Deano will have to make a lot of tough choices before next season gets underway.
By: Scott Brotherton.