Walsall to hold talks on Jordy Hiwula loan

The Saddlers boss claims his 15-goal striker has been desperate to get back after witnessing the instant impact of Hiwula, who has netted twice in three games since joining on an initial month-long loan.

Bradshaw is ready to return tomorrow against Bradford City after recovering from a hamstring injury.

And, while he is likely to go back into the starting line-up, Smith acknowledges Hiwula has made the decision harder than it might have been.

He said: "I think Tom sees that too, he's been itching to get back.

"He's seen that Jordy has come in and done well, Ashley Grimes came in and did well, there's good competition for places which gives me selection headaches, which is what I enjoy."

Smith is relaxed about Hiwula's situation, as his youth loan can be quickly extended.

The 20-year-old has certainly made an impression during his short time with the club, netting four minutes after coming on for his debut at Doncaster, before scoring again in the 3-2 win over Rochdale.

He failed to score against Port Vale but was denied what many felt was a clear penalty, with Smith saying: "He's come in and settled in really well.

"He's scored a couple of goals already, his movement is bright, he makes great runs and gets chances.

"He's everything we thought he would be and that's a conversation I will have with the people at Manchester City when I need to. In the games he's been with us, he's had chances."

The Saddlers will continue to run the rule over Middlesbrough defender David Atkinson for the coming days, though a loan move is unlikely.

Young defender Liam Kinsella is, meanwhile, celebrating another call-up from the Republic of Ireland Under-19s for their friendly with Azerbaijan.