Keeper Richard O'Donnell hints at Walsall deal

Keeper O'Donnell was one of four players earmarked for fresh terms by chief executive Stefan Gamble at a recent fans' forum, along with Paul Downing, who is also out of contract this summer.

Tom Bradshaw and Rico Henry, who both have 18 months on their current deals, are the others.

Talks have been ongoing for a couple of weeks with the players' representatives now, but O'Donnell is confident of remaining a Saddler.

"There shouldn't really be any problems," he said. "I'm not really worried about it – I'm just concentrating on all the games.

"Personally it's not playing on my mind and I'm leaving it to the gaffer and my agent to sort out.

"It's always nice to get recognition and hopefully that's the case because it means you're doing your job well.

"If I'm playing well, then I'm sure people are watching but I'm just leaving it to the club."

Sheffield-based O'Donnell insists the four-hour daily commute isn't a problem despite the exit of former travelling companions Andy Butler and Nicky Featherstone. "It's not a problem for me – I've done it for over 18 months now so I'm used to it and I just get on with it," he said.

"I might have lost a bit of petrol money but I get in early and can deal with it and it hasn't affected my form."

One of the keys to O'Donnell's happiness at the club is goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler.

"It's helped a lot – 'Cuts' is the best I've worked with in my career and we're working hard to improve every day," he added.

"I'm pleased with my form and how I'm progressing – I'm still working hard with 'Cuts' to improve."

Meanwhile, boss Dean Smith confirmed midfielder Mantom is looking to be available for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final against Bristol City on March 22

after missing virtually all season with a knee injury.

"I'm sure that (final) was his target anyway because it's a big incentive for him," said Smith. "We're hoping to get him training within the next week or two.

"He's been disappointed and frustrated after being player of the year last season. So it will be like having a new player for us.

"Michael Cain has done a really good job but he's learning the game, while Sam is 100 games ahead of him and we've missed him."