Andy Butler rules himself out of Walsall finale

Dean Holden has covered for the absent skipper since he was hurt in the 1-1 draw at Sheffield United just over two weeks ago and is likely to continue.

Butler feel it's not worth the risk of making the injury worse, with Dean Smith's men out of play-off contention but protecting a 15-game unbeaten record.

The central defender said: "I won't play again this season, there's no point in risking it for this game. It could get dislocated again and turn into eight weeks of recovery.

"I will keep myself fit and look forward to next season."

The 29-year-old is staying at the Banks's Stadium for next season after signing a new one-year contract last month, after joining the club in November 2010.

Butler was on the footballing scrap-heap after his release from Scunthorpe the previous summer and rates Walsall boss Smith as his best gaffer yet.

He said: "I came here two-and-a-half years ago, I was a free agent and I didn't know what I was going to do. Walsall gave me a chance and I have enjoyed my time here.

"I could have waited until the summer and saw what was about but I love it here. Things are looking great for the club and long may that continue.

"Dean is the best manager I have worked with and it's a good club, that's why I have signed another year here.

"The way he wants to play suits the players down to the ground."

Butler watched from the stands on Saturday as the Saddlers' play-off dream ended with a 1-1 draw at home to Bury, as Swindon beat Stevenage 3-0.

Walsall are guaranteed a top 10 finish whatever the result at Crewe and could finish as high as seventh, currently sitting eighth in the table.

He said: "It shows you how far we have come as a team, from two subsequent relegation fights to being disappointed at not being in the play-offs.

"It's something to build on for next year, definitely."