Brian Dutton enjoying Walsall challenge

It has been a baptism of fire for the 35-year-old since he took over, having failed to get a win in his opening 10 games. But Dutton is adamant that success is only around the corner.

When asked if he is glad he took the job, Dutton said: “I am, sadistically I am enjoying it.

“I used to work at Morrisons a long time ago and nothing would happen in the week. My week would be very mundane, there wouldn’t be many highs or many lows.

“So to be at a football club and managing a football club, I enjoy the lows, as sadistic as that sounds. My life is very rich at the moment.

“I believe in myself 100 per cent, I’m full of self-confidence. I believe I’m going to be a top, top manager. I have to ride out this storm, which is really tough, but there’s no wilt. You’ll have to nail me to the flood to keep me down.

“I’m bouncing back up and I’ll be moving this football club forward really quickly.”

Meanwhile, Dutton says there is no rift with young winger Jack Nolan despite his limited opportunities.

The 19-year-old came on as a substitute in Dutton’s first game as head coach, but has failed to make a single appearance since.

He has often been left out of squads and not travelled with the team to away games, but Dutton insists Nolan just has to be patient.

When asked if there are any issues behind the scenes, Dutton said: “No, it’s a case of the lads performing in training.

“The ones that are performing get their opportunity. Jack has been great, getting his head down and working hard, but we have others coming through.

“Tyreik has been really positive since he’s come into the team. He’s had assists and his running stats are through the roof.

“It’s a case of these guys staying ready and patient, wait for the opportunity, and when the opportunity comes, take it.

“There’s no problem there, he’s still in and around it and working hard. Jack has a good attitude.”