James Baxendale confident for future at Walsall
James Baxendale today insisted Walsall have the foundations for success next season – no matter which players might depart in the coming weeks.
Having this week told several players they will not be offered new deals – including top scorer Craig Westcarr – boss Dean Smith remains locked in negotiations with several out-of-contract stars including captain Andy Butler.
But while Baxendale is keen to see most of the current squad stay, he believes the Saddlers already have the spine of a strong team in place.
Smith tied down goalkeeper Richard O'Donnell, defender Paul Downing, midfielder Sam Mantom and forward Romaine Sawyers to longer deals this season.
Baxendale, who himself signed a three-year deal at the start of the campaign, said: "The squad could look different but when you think about it there is Richard O'Donnell who I have mentioned before I don't think you could ask for a better base to build from.
"He has been outstanding this season. Then you have PD (Downing), who is going to be in his third full season and is progressing really well as far as I can see, we have a great centre-half there, arguably one of the best in the league.
"Then there is Sam Mantom in the middle who has had an outstanding season, with Romaine (Sawyers) in front of him who keeps the ball a treat.
"In terms of the spine of the team it is all there and with good young players who are easy to build the squad around."
