Dean Keates: Walsall have done nothing yet

The Saddlers have enjoyed a flying start to the season that has seen them go unbeaten in their opening four games.

As well as achieving positive results, Walsall have also impressed with their style of play.

But Keates says it’s important nobody gets carried away.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve a few things in the game and I don’t think anybody has ever got promoted in August or September,” the boss said.

“It’s very early days. We’ve picked up some good results and there have been some decent performances.

“But we’ve now got a massive game at Wimbledon, it’s going to be a very tough game.

“We need to go there and give a good account of ourselves.

“We’re in a good place at the moment but the important thing is to keep moving forward.”

Wimbledon have also started the season unbeaten with the Dons yet to concede a goal in their three league outings.

Last season though, they broke Saddlers hearts when they came from two goals down to win 3-2 at the Banks’s Stadium.

That result put Keates’ side in serious danger of being relegated from League One.

And the boss admitted he expects a much better showing from his players tonight.

“That game was the lowest point of my time in charge but it was last season,” Keates continued.

“I was brought in to make sure the team was kept in the division.

“That is what happened so there is no point looking back.

“Squads have changed, teams have changed.

“I expect a different performance from my players down there and Wimbledon will be different as well.”

Keates has made minimal changes for Walsall’s three league games far.

But he has seen players impress in both the cup and off the bench when called upon.

And he’s told all his players to keep fighting for their shirts.

“I’ve said to the lads, if you are not in the 18 be disappointed,” the boss added.

“But be ready and keeping pushing those players who have got the tops at the moment.

“It’s the same with the subs. If you get an opportunity on that pitch you have to put yourself about and go and enjoy it.

“We have got players who are chomping at the bit to get into the team.”