Martin O'Connor on Walsall strength

Martin O'Connor has insisted there are no "weak links" in Walsall's squad ahead of their massive festive fixtures.

The assistant manager believes the players are ready for battle in games which could define their season.

They are due to travel to relegation rivals Bristol Rovers on Boxing Day, weather permitting, before hosting Dagenham & Redbridge next Tuesday in a crunch Christmas double-header.

The Saddlers go to promotion chasing Peterborough on January 3 between playing struggling Notts County and Tranmere, with O'Connor expecting a united front.

He said: "At the moment we're all together, there are no weak links at the training ground, we're all focused and positive.

"We're still frustrated, our league position isn't what we wanted at the start of the season but we've taken everything in.

"We're working hard and trying our best to get the best out of the players. If we keep working hard things will turn."

O'Connor insisted the management are still targeting to better last season's finish of 10th in League One, despite currently sitting second bottom.

He said: "There are plenty of games and plenty of points available. At the start of the season we were looking to better where we finished last season.

"With the points available it's still a target for us but we have to look to the next game."

An unbeaten festive period would give the Saddlers renewed hope of avoiding the drop, but O'Connor believes it's imperative they remain focused.

He added: "When we win I'm not elated or going mad but when we lose I'm not despondent, depressed or suicidal.

"You have to keep it on an even keel and work hard every day to improve the results."