Walsall's James O'Connor says hard work is key to upturn in form

The Saddlers have seen their fortunes improve dramatically over the past few months with Jon Whitney's side having lost just three of their last 13 games.

That run has coincided with a change in system with Whitney switching from a back four to a back three.

But O'Connor believes it's hard work – rather than formations – that has been key to the team's improved displays.

"I think there is always a lot of talk about a back three or back four," the defender said.

"But it's more about team shape and team ethic and that's been first class for the last six to eight weeks. I think we're now seeing the benefits of hard work and time – time playing with each other and working with each other. It's not just on the pitch. It's analysing clips. It's holding our own meetings as a defensive unit and a goalkeeper.

"You learn about each other and we are fortunate that we have got a group of players who want to become better.

"We talk about things, even on the bus back from games we talk about things to make us better."

O'Connor has lined up with Matt Preston and Eoghan O'Connell either side of him since the formation change.

And the 32-year-old admits he is enjoying his new role and playing with his fellow centre-backs.

"I have played in this formation quite a lot under different managers and I do enjoy it," O'Connor said. "It's one of those positions where you can see a lot of the game. You have to read things, solve problems on the pitch.

"And having two other lads beside me who are intelligent players also helps.

"But you have also got to talk to the players in front and your goalkeeper.

"It's one of them where perhaps you can be more influential on the pitch playing in the middle of a three.

"We have done quite well with it over the past few weeks. And I think it's important you have another string to your bow and that you can play different systems."

The Saddlers' home League One clash with Chesterfield, postponed earlier in the week, will now take place this coming Tuesday (7.45pm).