In the latest of his regular blogs, Scott Brotherton takes a look at Saddlers' Summer signing Tom Bradshaw, who arrived from Shrewsbury Town under at least something of a cloud, but has gone on to prove himself as a much-needed member of the team.It might seem crazy now, but it didn't seem as though Tom Bradshaw would set League One alight when he signed for the Saddlers in the summer.
Effectively a League Two player after leaving relegated Shrewsbury, Bradshaw had only netted seven times in 2013/14 - not a return that would raise many eyebrows.
However, he's more than halfway towards that tally already after just seven starts, so there might be a few heads turning. Not only that but he has grabbed four of Walsall's six league goals. When you consider what a sticky situation we find ourselves in at the moment, it could have been so much worse with Bradshaw's goalscoring touch.
For me, the pleasing aspect is the nature of his goals. Nothing too flashy, no long-range screamers, just old-fashioned goal poacher's stuff. The one exception was his consolation against Scunthorpe. It was a brilliant backwards header over the keeper while facing away from goal, showcasing superb technique.
Bradshaw is also one of those strikers who will never stop running. Reminiscent of Will Grigg in his prime, he will chase lost causes and put pressure on defenders all through the game. The ground he covers is even more noticeable when you compare it to more heavy-set players like Mathieu Manset, and this appetite and enthusiasm must stand Bradshaw in good stead.
It looks like Dean Smith and RIchard O'Kelly have once again found a gem of a young player. They seem to be masters of spotting talent that is yet to reach its full potential.
Prior to missing the last two games through injury, Bradshaw's run in the Saddlers' team may explain his barnstorming start to the campaign. He only really broke into the Shrewsbury side last year and still spent a lot of time on the subs bench, so maybe his start for Walsall has given him new-found confidence and momentum. We can only hope this brief injury niggle won't halt his progress.
Considering the fact that two of his goals were quite scrappy and one was headed from a hopeful punt upfield, he has done well to notch four times. The bullet header from Anthony Forde's pinpoint cross against Preston has really been the only direct assist. This lack of service in the opening handful of games makes Bradshaw's tally even more impressive.
The team haven't scored in his absence so it should be good to see him back for Doncaster on Saturday. It will be an excuse for 'Super Tommy Bradshaw' to ring out at the Banks's again. The last player to claim that chant was the legendary Jimmy Walker, so 'Super Tommy' must be a little bit special.
BY SCOTT BROTHERTON