Walsall Football Club central defender Paul Downing has today spoken of his understanding at club captain Andy Butler's decision to depart, and of his belief in the side's ability to secure a play-off place at the end of this coming season...Speaking to Saddlers.co.uk, Downing said: "We’ve lost a few lads in key areas, so it’s going to be an interesting summer. It’s a case of being patient and seeing what happens. The Gaffer knows what he wants and what he has to do to get it.
“There is a good core of players already here, so with a few additions we’ll be ready to go again. Also we’ll be looking for some of the younger lads to start to emerge on the first-team stage.”
“Like everyone else, I was sad to see ‘Buts’ go. I became good friends with him off-the-field as well as on it but I totally understand his reasons for wanting to be closer to his family.
“We’re quite a young squad but it’s time for the lads who have played a lot of games, like myself and Sam Mantom, to step up and lead by example.
“I’m still only young myself at 22, but I feel that I’ve got it in me to help people improve and be more of a vocal presence. I’m getting better and will be looking to take this progress into next season.
“The aim has to be to make it third time lucky and get into the play-offs. The League will provide us with a good challenge, but one that I feel we are more than capable of rising to."
You can read the full article and interview HERE.