Walsall have received a welcome injury boost as left-back Stephen Ward is expected to miss weeks rather than months of action following a recent issue.
36-year-old Ward has missed the Saddlers' last two outings after being forced off during the recent defeat to Exeter City, with his injury leading club officials to fear the worst.
However, the injury is not as bad as expected with the former Wolverhampton Wanderers, Burnley, Stoke City and Ipswich Town defender likely to feature for the first-team at some point over the next few weeks.
Speaking via the Express & Star, Walsall Head Coach Matthew Taylor welcomed the news, he said; "The initial signs suggest it's not as bad as we thought.
36-year-old Ward has missed the Saddlers' last two outings after being forced off during the recent defeat to Exeter City, with his injury leading club officials to fear the worst.
However, the injury is not as bad as expected with the former Wolverhampton Wanderers, Burnley, Stoke City and Ipswich Town defender likely to feature for the first-team at some point over the next few weeks.
Speaking via the Express & Star, Walsall Head Coach Matthew Taylor welcomed the news, he said; "The initial signs suggest it's not as bad as we thought.
"We thought it would be quite a significant injury to his calf, but it's a little bit better than we had hoped.
"So, with Stephen, I'd say weeks as opposed to months, which is great. I'm hopeful we'll have Stephen back with the group in two or three weeks time."
Taylor went on to praise the veteran defender, who has made almost 580 club appearances over a career which has spanned some nineteen years, with the gaffer believing he plays a vital role.
Matthew added; "He's a huge part of what we're doing. It's his experience, knowledge and how he is with the players.
Taylor went on to praise the veteran defender, who has made almost 580 club appearances over a career which has spanned some nineteen years, with the gaffer believing he plays a vital role.
Matthew added; "He's a huge part of what we're doing. It's his experience, knowledge and how he is with the players.
"He sets the tone with his behaviour, which is fantastic, both on and off the pitch."