Neil Etheridge relishing leadership role at Walsall
Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge admits he is enjoying the responsibility of becoming a leader in Walsall's dressing room.
The Philippines international, who is now in his second season at the Banks's Stadium, has made the number one jersey his own after joining on a free transfer in July 2015.
Etheridge will be part of the Walsall team that travels to take on Sheffield United tonight.
And with the Saddlers having a young and inexperienced side following a host of summer departures, the glovesman is doing what he can to bring new leadership to the side.
"I feel I now have the licence to be more vocal," he said. "I thought last season was a good first full season for me in league football.
"This season, I have gained respect from my early performances and I feel I am able to say what I need to say to get the best out of players.
"It's not about having a go at players or picking anyone out. It's about getting the best out of each individual for the team.
"I signed for Walsall last season and I was the new person in the squad.
"It's a different sort of role for me now. But I want to help out and try and be a leader as much as I can.
"It's a positive experience and I enjoy having the licence to be a leader. It's a big responsibility but it's great to know the staff has that faith in me."
Walsall head to Bramall Lane tonight having failed to win in their last five outings in League One.
But after keeping a clean sheet in Saturday's goalless draw with Southend, Etheridge believes they can overcome the Blades once again – having previously beaten them in the Checkatrade Trophy this season.
"After conceding four against Rochdale it was always going to be hard to bounce back – but we did that against Southend," he said. "The clean sheet is a great base to build on going into Sheffield United. It showed the strength of character we have in the group.
"Sheffield United have been on an impressive run. Tactically we are aware what their strengths are and we have worked hard to create ways to break them down.
"But if we can put in another solid defensive display we have a great chance.
"We have beaten them before this season in the Checkatrade Trophy and hopefully we can now do it again."
