Scott Laird: Walsall can start again

The 32-year-old spent two spells on loan at the Saddlers, most recently for the final months of the 2018/19 season, when Walsall were relegated to League Two.

Last season saw Walsall entertain an up and down campaign in the fourth tier, going on a six-game losing run in October before entering impressive form in the final few months before the season was curtailed.

Chairman Leigh Pomlett has already outlined his desire for promotion when football in League Two returns next season and Laird believes the club has the tools to be successful following relegation and a season to steady the ship.

"I always look for the results, Walsall are the first team I look for," he told the Express & Star.

"League Two is a tough, tough league.

"I played two seasons there and they are probably the two hardest I've had.

"It has a bit of everything, some teams play good football and others really dog it out and can have a good fight.

"Walsall were never going to be in trouble, they have some good players and it's been good to start again.

"It's given players like Liam Kinsella a good run in the team, he's going to be a really good football player.

"A good run of games for Josh Gordon, who has got some goals to get his confidence up.

"The manager has been a really good appointment, he'll do good things there.

"They could have had a late run for the play-offs but if they carry on the way they were playing into next season, I'm sure they will be successful.

"I really hope they are, there's lots to be excited about.

"Going down might be a blessing in disguise in the long run so they can re-evaluate and have a kick-start again."