Three former Saddlers in the news …

Barras, signed in 1999 helped the Reds to promotion via the play offs in 2001 but was released by Colin Lee last season. He moved to Notts County along with Stefan Oakes but failed to save the Magpies from relegation and has now joined Macclesfield.

Scottish international Paul Ritchie, meanwhile, is still searching for a club after leaving Walsall this summer. He has turned down a move to the Metrostars in the USA, saying "I have discussed it with my family and decided it is not the right move at this time. There's a couple of options, with Ghent in Belgium and Tenerife in Spain, and we will talk over the weekend." Ritchie has also been linked with Aberdeen, Dundee United and Livingston. Last season’s Bescot player of the year said "I had a few offers to stay in England and there was also interest shown from a couple of clubs in the Scottish Premier League."

Finally, Byfield – scorer of the play off final winner in 2001 – is training with Walsall whilst looking for a new club. His two year contract offer from Sunderland was withdrawn after his agent tried for a better deal.

"I'm going in to do some fitness training with Walsall today because I know Paul Merson. I haven't spoken to Mick McCarthy or the club directly since the end of last season because I leave all that stuff to my agent. I want to sign for Sunderland, but my agent's telling me there's no deal now. I'm in limbo, really. If the contract's not on the table, we will have to look around, but I'm desperate to sign." said Byfield.

Byfield would be a great addition to a Walsall squad lacking firepower but would surely be out of our financial league. One player who could boost our attacking options is Tommy Mooney. Out of contract at Swindon, Mooney is reported to be considering an offer from Walsalll. However Merse has since denied this claim even though Mooney was, according to reports,  spotted at Bescot yesterday.