Keates, who led his side through an unbeaten spell at the start of the season, believes that last weekend's Emirates FA Cup - First Round victory over Coventry City saw the Saddlers display some of the passion and drive which had initially separated them from the rest.
Speaking via the Express & Star, Dean said; "We aren’t far away. In the games we have lost, we have created opportunities, not taken them and been punished. There are bits that we need to learn from but against Coventry we showed great character. We went 2-0 up. We got pegged back to 2-2. But after conceding that second goal we went on to win it and were the better team. We will draw on that."
This afternoon's clash with the Trawlermen has been moved to a noon kick-off as it has been scheduled for broadcast on Sky Sports Football, giving the Saddlers and all-too rare opportunity to showcase themselves in front of a national audience, and the manager doesn't believe that playing in front of the cameras will affect his players, as he expects a good performance regardless.
The gaffer added; "As a player it shouldn’t make one bit of difference if I’m honest. I wouldn’t expect it to make any difference. It’s a game and we have to go and do our best to win it. We will see what happens on the day, but just because it’s on Sky I expect no difference from my players."