Walsall defender Shay Facey: I'm still working on my fitness
Saddlers defender Shay Facey has admitted he’s yet to regain full fitness, but that his ‘consistent performances’ are helping him get back to his best.
The right-back withdrew with a quad strain after less than 20 minutes of the 1-0 win over Leyton Orient on New Year’s Day.
He wasn’t seen again the pitch until February 1, but after starting the last two games Facey is pleased with the opportunity to impress – while also admitting that he’s still working on his fitness.
“I had a quad strain,” he said.
“It’s just a bit of ongoing tightness but there’s nothing to worry about.
“Personally I’d prefer to be a little bit fitter and that’s what I’m working towards.
“My job as a player is to focus on being available for selection for the manager and that’s all I can do.
“I have to train hard so it’s not a case of holding back to try and get ready for the game, you have to get through a good week of training to be able to come and perform and that’s what I’ll be doing.
“I wouldn’t say I’m 100 per cent – I’m getting there and working hard during the week.
“Looking after my body after training is the main thing but I’m definitely happy to get 90 minutes and I’ll be heading towards 100 per cent soon.”
The 25-year-old has played the full 90 minutes in the last two fixtures and believes this is down to his reliability.
“I’ve shown that I can be relied upon when I’m needed,” he added.
“I think I’ve been quite consistent in my performances but you can always improve and that’s what I’ll be looking to do in each game. We’ve got the train back on track so hopefully we can take the momentum into a busy week.”
