Dean Smith calls for Walsall players to step up and replace void left by Andy Butler

Butler, who had been captain throughout Smith's three-and-a-half year term as manager, opted for a switch to Sheffield United this summer and his exit left a sizeable hole to fill in the middle of defence.

Smith signed James O'Connor last month but insists the 29-year-old is not a like-for-like replacement for the former skipper and says both Ben Purkiss and James Chambers will get the chance to compete for a centre-back spot.

"I'm happy with how the defence is looking," said Smith. "It looks really solid.

"We lost Andy Butler which was disappointing because I have had him as long as I have been here. He was the leader and captain.

"But I have brought Jimmy O'Connor in, he is a fantastic player and a fantastic character as well.

"With Jimmy, James Chambers and Ben Purkiss they can all compete for the centre-half spot as well."

Chambers played at centre-back on a handful of occasions last season and Smith is confident the veteran defender can play there on a consistent basis.

And he insists there is no extra pressure on O'Connor, who should not be viewed as a Butler replacement.

"There isn't added pressure because in our eyes he (O'Connor) is not a replacement, he is another really good defensive player we have signed," said Smith.

"I was not looking at a direct replacement for Andy Butler, I was looking for another defender.

"I think there will be some really good competition in the defence during pre-season, there always is.

"I'm everybody's friend at the moment until August 9 when I have to pick the team."

The Saddlers get their first competitive run out of the pre-season this afternoon – albeit behind closed doors – when they take on Wigan Athletic at the Championship club's training ground.

Fans will get their chance to quiz Smith on his plans for the season when the manager takes part in a Meet the Manager event at The Saddlers Club on Monday August 4.

Before then they can catch up with former hero Jorge Leitao tonight. The Portuguese striker, who is due to appear in tomorrow's Club Legends Cup tournament at Birmingham's LG Arena, will be around to meet fans at Scooters Bar between 6pm and 8pm. Admission to the event is free.