Walsall manager Darrell Clarke expecting 'tough' Forest Green Rovers test

It will be only Walsall's second away trip to face Mark Cooper's side in the history of both clubs, after beating them 2-1 last season.

Clarke is expecting a challenging afternoon and has praised his opposite number Cooper for the job he has done.

"I think it's going to be a very, very difficult game," Clarke said.

"They're going to be right up there, I think they're one of the better teams in this division.

"If you look over the last two games they've had nearly 50, 55 attempts at goal.

"We're under no illusions at how difficult this game is going to be, however, like they'll know, they have their strengths and we have our strengths.

"It's hopefully set up to be a good game.

"If you look at his managerial record at every club he's been at, he's brought success to the football club.

"He's an experienced manager who knows what he's doing and knows how he wants his team to perform.

"They're very enjoyable to watch on the eye and have been there or thereabouts most seasons. They seem to be getting stronger.

"It's a tough, tough test. I thought they were a miles better team than Salford last week, they should have won that game, and Salford are the league favourites.

"We know it's going to be a tough afternoon but one we're looking forward to.

"We made quite a few changes the other night and they'll be quite a few changes tomorrow as well."

Walsall now enter a period of eight games crammed into October and while Clarke is pleased to see a fully fit squad emerging, he is embracing the hectic schedule.

"I'm not going to complain about that to be honest, I'm really pleased to be back doing my job," he added.

"I think the squad is stronger this season, we have decent options. The game's come thick and fast but it's like that for every single team.

"We're cracking on with it, I'm not going to complain about that, we know there's lots of games.

"We have to be able to manage that and injuries and obviously Covid is on everyone's doorstep at the minute.

"We have to make sure that everybody is ready and prepared.

"I'm pretty delighted that Callum Cockerill-Mollett's coming back into training now, he's not far away and that gives me a fully fit squad.

"Which is good news with the rushed pre-season and the games coming up. Hopefully it puts us in good stead."