Gary Liddle comment: Surprise move creates space for Saddlers

The 33-year-old hasn’t hit the ground running at the Banks’s Stadium.

He’s made 16 appearances since joining on a free transfer in the summer, playing across the back line in centre-back and right-back, as well as a handful of chances in centre-midfield.

After starting the season with a spot in the starting XI, Liddle’s chances began to slip away in the last two months.

Despite being named regularly on the bench, Liddle hasn’t played since the 1-0 FA Cup replay win over Darlington on November 20.

His latest appearance in the league came two months ago on October 19 in the 2-1 loss to Cheltenham.

Quite simply, he has fallen out of favour and when you look at it more closely, his loan move to Hartlepool is less of a shock than first thought.

Hailing from Middlesbrough and having spent most of his career in the north, a move to Hartlepool allows Liddle to be closer to family just in time for Christmas.

The defender also spent six years at the club from 2006 to 2012, making his move much easier.

It does means dropping out of the football league and playing in the National League, but frankly the move probably means Liddle will be much happier.

Manager Darrell Clarke spoke glowingly of the defender when asked about his loan move, praising him for his attitude.

“He wants to play football,” Clarke said.

“I can’t guarantee him a start.

“I think Gary did very well in the back three earlier on in the season and at right-back.

“He’s had a couple opportunities in midfield and I didn’t think he did as well.

“I have plenty of cover in the back line, it’s a strong area.

“But it’s testament to the lad, he wants to be playing week in, week out.

“His attitude is absolutely spot on, a fantastic member of the group.

“So when Hartlepool came in for him I put it to one of my seniors and he fancied getting some games under his belt.

“We’ll assess how that goes to the end of January and we’ll take it from there.

“We wish him all the best until then.”

But there is one thing to note, the club and Clarke should be applauded for letting Liddle move out on loan.

Although he wasn’t performing, and in that case it’s easier to make the decision to ship a player out, the club could very easily have hung on to him.

He’s experienced, can play in several positions and has been a mainstay in the match day squads.

Walsall could have taken the easy road and kept him at the club as an option for the squad.

Instead, they did what was best for the player and allowed him to move back up north for game time.

The loan is only until January 29, which may have raised a few eyebrows.

But it gives Hartlepool the chance to try before they buy, particularly important as they’re a non-league club.

Secondly, with time to spare before the end of the January transfer window, another move can be secured for Liddle if the Hartlepool loan fails.

Many will agree that it’s hard to see him back at Walsall again but anything can happen in football and it’s one to keep a keen eye on.