Walsall comment: Start planning now for promotion

It may not be what some fans want to hear, but the reality is that the Saddlers are going nowhere this year.

Consecutive defeats to Carlisle, Morecambe and Crewe, have shattered any slim hopes of a play-off push in the coming months.

Darrell Clarke’s team sit 12 points off seventh place, and while that’s still possible to make up before the end of April, the squad likely isn’t capable at this stage.

They have, however, shown glimpses of being a top League Two side this season, with the excellent first-half performance against Crewe immediately springing to mind.

The core of the squad is capable, but the depth within it isn’t – while the lack of a experienced right winger in a team that plays 4-4-2 is still a stain.

The gap to bottom-placed Stevenage is 14 points, meaning Walsall’s most likely destination this season is mid-table.

What better time to prepare for next season than the remaining months of this season?

Clarke has said as much already, while he wants to win games and finish as high as possible, he’s got on eye on the bigger picture.

That approach can be dangerous, however, if not treated properly.

If the focus falls fully on the summer, fans will become uninterested in the remaining games this season. The club cannot afford to see dwindling attendances, both financially and for the good of the team.

Supporters need a reason to stick with the team and only committed displays from now until April will do that – even if the bigger picture is more important.

Similarly, a good end to the season is pivotal in giving the club a head-start in the summer and that momentum can be carried into the start of the next campaign.

In terms of personnel, the squad still needs strengthening.

Across the board, around five or six first-team players will be needed, while others that haven’t worked will need moving on.

Ideally the club will want to sign loanees Jack Rose and Cameron Pring for another year. A deal for goalkeeper Rose will be a possibility, however Pring is held in high esteem at parent club Bristol City, and a deal may not be feasible.

If they don’t sign, a goalkeeper and left-back are needed.

Outside of loans, two wingers are essential for next year – particularly one to play on the right flank.

A deal for loanee Nathan Sheron is not expected in the summer, so at least one midfielder is needed, perhaps one with more creativity.

Finally, whether Rory Gaffney stays with the club after his loan spell or not, another striker is certainly needed as more competition is essential for Caolan Lavery and Josh Gordon.

If the ingredients are there, it could be an exciting season for the Saddlers as they bid for a League One return.