Keates tells Walsall: Show me what you can do

The Saddlers travel to Highbury Stadium tomorrow safe in the knowledge their League One status is secure following a 1-1 draw at Bradford on Tuesday.

It means Keates – who was appointed in March – is in the luxurious position of being able to experiment.

And he admits he is looking forward to having a look at some of the younger members of his squad.

“The Fleetwood game is an opportunity for some players,” he said.

“There are a few I haven’t really had a look at. Mentally and physically we have been pushed through it over the past few weeks. It’s been tough.

“And it’s been virtually the same group of the lads, there have only been one or two changes.

“This is an opportunity for us to have a look at one or two more.

“At the weekend, we can go and play. We have an opportunity to express ourselves.

“It’s not the case that we have to get something out of the game. Up until this point, it has always been points over performances. Now we have the opportunity to put on a performance.

“We have got a massive following, we have got 1,200 going up there.

“I’m sure there will be a few of them enjoying a weekend in Blackpool.

“All being well we can help them enjoy their weekend by putting on a good performance and getting some points.”

Walsall’s trip to the Fylde Coast is likely to be the last time fans see Erhun Oztumer in a Saddlers shirt.

The trickster is out of contract in the summer and believed to be attracting interest from a host of clubs.

And Keates believes the 26-year-old deserves a lot of credit for the 17 goals he has scored this season.

“To get 17 goals for a team that has been down there shows you what a good player he is,” the boss added.

“He is a talent. He is creative and if we can get him on the ball he is an asset for us.

“He also works hard off the ball though, he pulls his weight.”