Walsall continue with Danny Webber trial

The 27-year-old has departed after Saddlers boss Dean Smith decided he already has enough central midfield options at his disposal.

But the manager is keen to have another look at veteran forward Webber, who featured in last week's pre-season games at Alfreton and Leamington.

The 32-year-old former Sheffield United and Watford hitman will remain on trial with the Saddlers for the rest of this week and is likely to feature in tomorrow's first home pre-season friendly against Leicester.

Last night Smith also held talks – which had been originally scheduled for Sunday – with an 'attack-minded player' over a proposed deal as he looks to put the finishing touches to his squad ahead of the new League One campaign.

Like Webber, Ruiz played against Alfreton and Leamington – scoring in the latter.

But Smith did not feel the Spaniard would significantly improve the playing squad and is also eager not to block the development of youngsters like Reece Flanagan and Jake Heath.

And while there are concerns over the fitness of Sam Mantom, the manager has already stressed he would favour dipping into the loan market if necessary.

"I thought he did OK," said Smith about Ruiz. "But at 27 years-old I had to wonder just where could he go with us.

"If I keep him he is going to be in the way of lads like Reece Flanagan. Danny is still with us and we will see how things go."

Ruiz was the second Spanish player on trial over pre-season after Javier Iglesias, who was released last week.

The Saddlers should also today get an answer on how long Jordan Cook will miss with his ankle injury after the forward underwent a scan yesterday.