Jason McCarthy grateful for show of Walsall faith

The 21-year-old has become integral to the Saddlers since joining on loan from Premier League Southampton back in June.

McCarthy has featured in every minute of every game for Whitney's side this season - with the full-back grabbing his third goal of the campaign in the 4-1 win over Sheffield United.

And he believes the faith the manager has shown in him has allowed him develop as a player.

"I can't speak highly enough of the gaffer," McCarthy said.

"He has shown faith in me from the minute I came in.

"I remember the first day I met him. I saw a lot of myself in him and a lot of him in me.

"He's been great for me. I haven't missed a minute. I have played 32 games on the bounce. All 90 minutes. I can't thank him enough for that. It has given me so much belief.

"I now feel confident going out on to the pitch and playing my own game."

McCarthy initially joined the Saddlers on a six-month loan which was promptly extended until the end of the season at the beginning of January.

A boyhood Southampton fan, the defender also enjoyed a temporary spell with Wycombe Wanderers last season.

And he admits he couldn't be happier at Walsall, with the youngster now determined to maintain his impressive form.

"I am absolutely loving my team here," McCarthy added.

"The fans, the staff have been brilliant with me.

"All the players have been brilliant with me from the moment I came in.

"I feel like I am improving a lot as a player. Week after week I feel like I'm getting better.

"I'm really enjoying playing on the right side of defence whether it's as a full-back or as a wing-back.

"I feel like I am continually developing as a player and I cannot thank the club enough for that.

"Now I just have to work hard to make sure it continues."