Walsall FC hit by Will Grigg cash wait

The Saddlers are entitled to compensation for the 22-year-old, who moved to Brentford at the start of July when his contract at the Banks's Stadium expired.

But it has now emerged the FA tribunal to decide the fee will not take place until the final week of August.

That is after Dean Smith side have travelled to Griffin Park for a League One fixture on August 24. And even more infuriatingly for the Saddlers boss, the delay means he will have virtually no time to spend any of the cash should he wish to, before the transfer window slams shut.

"I believe the tribunal will now be after we have played them, which is a bit weird," said Smith. "They will still owe us money for one of our players – and he can play against us."

He added: "The funds are there should we need to add anyone, but unfortunately it looks like being bolstered by the money for Will in September, after the window closes.

"It's frustrating but it is what it is."

The Saddlers will be hoping for a substantial sum for the Northern Ireland international, who netted 20 times in League One last season.

Grigg scored his first goals for the Bees when he hit two in their 3-1 win over Sheffield United on Saturday.

Walsall have already seen the coffers boosted by the sale of Jamie Paterson to Nottingham Forest for a reported six-figure fee.

Smith has indicated the club will use a chunk of those funds to tie down the club's young stars to longer contracts. Winger James Baxendale recently signed a new three-year deal, the longest contract signed at the club in recent times.

The 20-year-old notched his second goal in as many games at Oldham Athletic on Saturday and Smith is delighted with his form.

"I'm pleased for James because he's got goals in him," he said. "It's a great reaction to his new contract."

The Saddlers have confirmed tickets for their League Cup second-round clash at Stoke on August 28 will be priced at £12 for adults and £6 for concessions. Tickets will go on sale later this week.