Jason McCarthy offers Walsall hope of return

The 21-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding season since joining the Saddlers on loan from Southampton back in June.

McCarthy has played every minute of every game for Jon Whitney's side having cemented his place on the right side of defence.

But the talented youngster says he must keep his options open, with his Southampton contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign.

"Of course I could come back," McCarthy said.

"At this point I don't want to say I'm doing this or that because I honestly don't know myself.

"It's the last year of my contract at Southampton.

"They are a club that gives young players a chance but there is nothing there I am aware of at the moment.

"I am very ambitious. I do want to get to the top as quickly as possible – like any player would. I want to keep stepping up.

"I have to keep my options open but of course staying here is an option.

"I've had a great season. I am really enjoying my football and that is the main thing at the end of the day."

Despite his future being up the air, McCarthy's primary focus at the moment is making sure Walsall end the season sitting in the top half of League One.

"This team merits a top half finish." the defender continued.

"It hurts me that we are currently 14th in the table.

"A couple of weeks ago we were eighth. But that is League One. You can jump from one to the other very quickly.

"In little stages throughout the season we have looked like we may push towards that top six.

"It's been a frustrating few weeks. We had some disappointing results.

"Other teams have played and we haven't. We have still got a couple of games in hand.

"Now we want to take advantage of that. We are determined to finish in the top half and make sure we end the season on a good note for the fans."