Walsall defender Zak Jules eager to kick on
Walsall defender Zak Jules has a new-found appreciation for football after months without it during the coronavirus lockdown.
The Saddlers have now played their first two fixtures following a six-month lay-off after last season ended prematurely.
Jules, who has put in two strong performances already this season, is making the most of his opportunity after the gloom days of lockdown lifted.
"Having had so long off and being away from the football environment and away from the boys – being starved of football – it's given me that extra bit of hunger.
"I appreciate playing football and being out there, not taking it for granted and taking any opportunity that comes.
"Since I've been back it's been the same for the whole group, everyone is relishing being back and doing what we love.
"We're making the most of it, enjoying it, and it's a really good feeling."
Against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday Jules played 90 minutes at left-back, but on Tuesday against Bristol Rovers he played the full game as a left-sided centre-back – and it is that versatility that he believes will serve him well this season.
"I feel like I'm quite versatile and can play left back, left-sided centre-half or left of a back three," he added.
"Whatever formation the gaffer wants to play I feel I can slot in somewhere."
Signing for the Saddlers as a centre-back last summer, Jules has the required athleticism to play as a full-back – particularly in the hard battles that League Two often provides.
When asked if he has a preferred position, the 23-year-old was more diplomatic in his answer, insisting he is happy to play wherever he is needed for Darrell Clarke's side.
"I'll play anywhere, as long as I'm on the pitch and I can be out there to help the boys get a result, that's fine with me," Jules said.
"I'm a centre-half by trade but I feel comfortable in both left-back and centre-half, so whatever it takes for me to be out there.
"It wasn't completely new for me (playing left-back).
"I'm not the slowest so it's been pretty easy for me to slot in there.
"Last season when I was getting a run in the team, that was the longest period I've played left-back, but I enjoyed it.
"It's more of a shift than centre-half but I enjoy it."
