Saddlers boss may turn to trialists for signings

The Saddlers boss claims to be close to deals for a couple of players, but is prepared to be patient before making any final decisions.

Two trialists are poised to link up with the squad next week, while experienced forward Danny Webber played in last Friday's 0-0 draw at Wigan Athletic.

He has not travelled with the squad to Devon this week – is set to resume training with the club on their return.

When asked about the current situation with respect to new signings, Smith said: "I'm still looking at another couple to bring in.

"They are not far off, there are a couple there waiting but to be fair I want to have a look at a couple of trialists first.

"I feel it is only fair I have a look at them before making a move on any other players. It will likely to be the end of next week when anything happens.

"Danny Webber trained with us last week and played against Wigan. He will be in next week so we can have a look at him again, too."

But one player who could be in line for a deal is current Spanish trialist Javier Lopez Iglesias, after Smith admitted to being impressed by the 25-year-old's efforts thus far.

Iglesias, who has played for Aviles in the third tier of Spanish football, is likely to feature in tonight against Taunton Town and on Saturday when the Saddlers play Torquay United.

Smith explained: "Javier played at Wigan and impressed, so we invited him down here for the week. His job is to keep on impressing us.

"He wants to earn a contract here and he has not done himself any harm, at the moment.

"He has impressed me enough for us to invite him and his use of the English language has got better. He has been integrated into the group."

Smith has added Tom Bradshaw and Jordan Cook to his forward line this summer and is continuing to focus his search on attacking players.