Milan Lalkovic aiming to extend his Walsall FC loan deal

The 20-year-old scored one and made one as the Saddlers opened their campaign with an impressive 3-1 home win over Tranmere Rovers on Saturday.

Lalkovic is currently on loan at the Banks's until January from Premier League Chelsea.

But the Slovakia Under-21 international has quickly settled into his new surroundings and after notching his first goal in senior football, revealed he hopes the deal will be extended to at least the end of the campaign.

"At first it's just six months but hopefully I'll stay here for longer, for the whole season at least," he said.

"It's 46 games in the league, which is so many games and for me it's important to get the experience against these centre-backs.

"It's a tough league as well. Hopefully I will show what I have got in other games as well.

"The group is really good. It's a good bunch of lads with the gaffer, Richard and the staff. I feel in a good environment and that helps my game as well."

Lalkovic, whose career has also taken in spells in Portugal and Holland, made no secret of his desire to one day play at the top level but added: "You have to start somewhere and this is a good start. This is a good opportunity and I'm happy to be here."

Lalkovic was also full of praise for strike partner Craig Westcarr, who scored twice in the win over Rovers.

The duo's link-up play created constant problems for the visiting defence and they combined for the Slovakian's 25th-minute goal.

"I think we play together very well," he said. "He is always aware when I make any runs. He is a clever player. It was a very good win, but this is just the start. Hopefully we will keep it going."

Andy Taylor, who missed Saturday's game through injury, is expected to recover in time for tomorrow's Captial One Cup first-round clash at Port Vale.