Febian Brandy in vow to win over Walsall fans

Brandy made an eye-catching return to Saddlers action in last night's 1-0 home win against Oldham – a victory that lifted Dean Smith's men into the play-off places.

And the 24-year-old, who upset some Walsall supporters last summer by quitting the club to join Sheffield United, hopes his performance will change their mood after he returned on loan for the rest of the season.

"An opportunity came to go – with no disrespect to Walsall – to a massive club and the majority of people in my situation would probably have done the same thing," said Brandy.

"I had just had a little girl and it was closer to Manchester.

"In my heart I was upset that I had to leave to pursue my career. I didn't really want to leave Walsall but I couldn't turn that chance down.

"I knew how the fans would react because when a player leaves for a team in the same division the fans aren't going to take to it, and I understand that.

"But hopefully I can put in some good performances, help the team climb the table and get the fans back onside."

Brandy was booed by some fans when he returned to the Banks's Stadium as a Blades player but he received a largely positive response last night after being restored to the starting line-up immediately by boss Dean Smith.

And he believes the Saddlers can keep pace with their fellow play-off contenders.

"We got the win last night with a good team performance and that gives us a chance to push on for the play-offs," he said.

"I have always said if you've got team spirit and focus on getting promoted then it's always possible.

"There are talented lads here and it is possible.

"At this time of the season there is no point focusing on individual stuff. You need to stick together as a team and that's what I've come here to do.

"I've not come here to be the main man, I've come here to benefit the team and hopefully get them into the play-offs."