Mathieu Manset urged to grasp his chance

The French striker has started just four times since signing for the Saddlers in late August and has featured mainly off the bench, after finding himself behind Tom Bradshaw and Jordan Cook in the pecking order.

He has scored just one goal, in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy win at Rochdale, though he did find the net for the reserves this week in their 2-1 win at Wrexham when Ashley Grimes was also on target.

Nevertheless, manager Smith has been impressed by Manset's attitude but admitted the former Hereford and Reading hitman must make the most of any time he gets on the pitch.

"I think fitness has been an issue and so has other people's form," said Smith. "Bradders (Bradshaw) with the way he has played and how he has been around the team has been a shoe-in to get a starting place, he has been scoring goals and obviously we had Jordan Cook come back as well.

"Manny started the game at Rochdale in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and scored and has been playing bit parts coming off the bench.

"His attitude has been first class, he just wants to get into the team and has been fighting hard for that."The reserve game this week was a game he and Ashley needed because they have not had loads of minutes lately and they both scored in it which was pleasing for them."

Smith believes he has strong competition throughout the squad and added: "You have got to take it, grasp that opportunity when it comes along," Smith said.

"That is like the majority of players as we have a really competitive squad now with everyone being fit.

"Adam Chambers and Michael Cain know they have to be at the top of their game with Billy Clifford, Reece Flanagan and now Sam Mantom breathing down their necks."