Shaun Donnellan returns to stake Walsall claim

But while Shaun Donnellan is now determined to fight his way back into the starting XI for the Saddlers’ clash at Bristol Rovers tomorrow – he was also delighted to see Kory Roberts flourish in the win over Plymouth.

The 19-year-old stepped into the centre of Walsall’s back-three while Donnellan was part of the Republic of Ireland under-21 side that secured victory in Azerbaijan.

And now boss Jon Whitney has a big decision to make as to whether he sticks with Roberts or recalls the Albion loanee.

“I’m glad to back and now really looking forward to Bristol Rovers,” Donnellan said.

“The lads got a fantastic result against Plymouth which I was following really closely.

“It was great to get that win and I was delighted for Kory because I’ve heard he played brilliantly.

“That is me being genuine because Kory is a great lad and I want to see him do well. It’s not about me, we are all here to do our best for Walsall.

“I would much rather the boys won and now it’s up to me to fight my way back in. That’s what football should be all about.

“I’m ready to step back in if the gaffer needs me. But if he decides to stick with Kory, I will be patient, work hard in training and take my chance when it comes.”

Bristol Rovers have so far endured an indifferent start to the 2017/18 campaign with Darrell Clarke’s side having won two and lost three of their first five matches in League One.

With Billy Bodin, who was close to joining Cardiff last month, Ellis Harrison, Liam Sercombe and Byron Moore, the Gasheads have a wealth of attacking talent.

Walsall though also have a lot of options up front following the arrivals of Tyler Roberts, Dan Agyei and Zeli Ismail.

Like Donnellan, Roberts has been snapped up on loan from Albion.

And the Irishman believes his team mate has as very bright future in the game.

“Tyler has settled in really well – he didn’t need any help from me because he is a confident lad,” Donnellan continued.

“On his debut he got a goal and an assist and I’m sure there are going to be plenty more because he is a top player.

“If he keeps working hard his talent will shine.

“He can play in lots of possessions. Both out wide and as a striker. But for me he is a number nine or a number 10.”

Donnellan enjoyed a successful loan spell in the National League with Dagenham and Redbridge last season.

But he feels he has adapted well to life in League One, even if he feels the international break didn’t come at the best of times for him.

“It’s always fantastic to be called up by Ireland,” the defender added.

“It means everything to me and my family for me to play for my country.

“Perhaps it didn’t come at the best time for me this time around because I’m really enjoying it here at Walsall.

“Like Ireland, it’s a really tight group of lads.

“I feel I’ve done well so far. I’m enjoying playing in League One.

“Now I just want to keep working hard and keep improving.”