Fight or quit warns Clayton McDonald

Clayton McDonald has insisted Walsall's players should quit if they can't get up for their survival fight.

The recalled defender stands in the way of title-chasing Brighton tomorrow, as the Seagulls look for the win which would clinch the League One crown at the Banks's Stadium.

The Saddlers, who are out of the drop zone on goal difference, need the points to stay up ahead of their final five games.

They also host Sheffield Wednesday and Charlton, as well as going to Oldham and Southampton, and McDonald reckons the players will be up for the fight – but should retire if they're not.

He said: "If you're not ready it will pass you by and you might as well not play. But everyone has got a fighting mentality here – we want to stay in the division.

"I'm a professional and I get myself up for every game. It doesn't matter who I'm playing as long as I'm in the first team. Against any team I'm ready and raring to go.

"I play football because I love it but whatever gets thrown at us we'll deal with it. Everyone at Walsall, all the players and all the staff, want to win games."

Tuesday's 3-2 win over Brentford was McDonald's first start since the 1-1 FA Cup draw at Fleetwood in November and had only played eight minutes of first-team football before his shock recall.

But the former Manchester City trainee never thought of leaving the Saddlers, despite his lack of action.

He said: "No, not at all. I believe I'm a good player and I just need a chance to show it. I believe in my own ability.

"I've been raring to go, biding my time patiently and trying my best in training to get back into the team.

"I was just keeping myself fit to be ready for my chance. I last started in November and even then I went off with a hamstring injury, so it just took time to get back in the team.

"It's been very difficult because every player wants to play and if you don't you're in the wrong profession and the wrong frame of mind.

"In training I always gave my best, so now I've got my chance."