Dean Smith defends his Walsall back-line

The final day 8-2 defeat at Bristol City re-opened the debate over whether Saddlers need more of a presence in both boxes.

But Smith believes statistics prove his team has been more than strong enough at the back.

He said: "If you look at our defensive record, it does not necessarily mean you need a commanding centre-half. Until losing at Bristol, we were in the top four defences in the division.

"People will look at their defender, Aden Flint, scoring a hat-trick. But I don't think any of those strikes were from more than a couple of feet off the ground."

The Saddlers lost Andy Butler last summer and though James O'Connor was not viewed as a direct replacement, the 30-year-old finished the campaign strongly.

O'Connor, James Chambers, Paul Downing and youngster Matt Preston are all currently in talks over new deals at the Banks's.

And Smith believes his team must capitalise on strong defensive performances next season.

He said: "In five games, we conceded 23 goals. In the other 41 games, we let in just 33. Defensively, barring the odd blip, we have been good.

"What we have not done is score enough goals in those games when defensively we have been strong."

The Saddlers' pre-season schedule continues to take shape with a friendly at Luton Town.

Walsall will visit Kenilworth Road on Saturday August 1 (3pm). It follows the announcement of a home game with Albion on July 28.

Walsall sides will also travel to non-league Rushall Olympic (July 22) and Chasetown (July 29).