Scott Laird: Fierce competition for places at Walsall

The Saddlers, who host Coventry at the Banks's Stadium, head into the clash in impressive form having won four and drawn one of their last five games.

That success has largely been achieved with a settled side, with boss Jon Whitney having been able to pick the same back-four and midfield throughout October.

But while fans may feel a large chunk of the Walsall team now picks itself, Laird insists that isn't the case.

"It's great to have a settled team – I was in a successful Stevenage side for four years and we were very consistent with the back four, back five," the defender said.

"But the lads behind us, Matty Preston, Callum Cockerill-Mollet, have been brilliant pushing us.

"We know if we are not on our game they will come in and do well.

"It's the same in midfield. Joe Edwards and Skip (Adam Chambers) have been excellent.

"But Isaiah Osbourne, George Dobson and Liam Kinsella are all pushing them as well. We have got some great midfielders at the club.

"Credit to all those boys because they are working really hard behind the scenes to keep performances at a high level."

At 28, Laird is one of the more experienced heads in what is a young Saddlers squad.

But the Scunthorpe loanee admits he is enjoying his role as an elder statesman. "I'm only 28 – but some of the lads call me dad!" Laird laughed.

"I had a shave the other day and that took a bit off me so now I only look 35.

"But it's great working with these young players because, the big thing I've noticed, is that they want to learn and get better.

"I've had a few conversations where one of the young lads has pulled me to one-side to ask for advice.

"They want to know what they can do to be better and what to do in certain situations.

"I think that is brilliant and is testament to the manger for bringing those types of players together. "They all want to do well for Walsall Football Club

"And I feel humbled that they want to learn from me and they see me as a player who can help them."