Matt Taylor: No fear approach is the way forward for Walsall

The Saddlers are set to step into a packed out Valley Parade, with Derek Adams’ third-placed side having welcomed more than 14,000 fans for both of their home games in League Two so far this season.

Taylor’s charges go into the clash after getting off the mark against Stevenage last weekend, and he wants to build on that victory with a confident display.

“We’ve spoken previously about every game being difficult,” said Taylor.

“But what I will say, regardless of who the opposition is, we don’t really have anything to fear in my opinion.

“All that I’ll ask our players to do is to replicate and go beyond the performance they produced against Stevenage.

“I’d like us to be better with the ball, but I thought defensively we were sound last weekend. We’re going to need that again, against Bradford.

“There will be 14,000, 15,000 or 16,000 fans there, so our players have a different challenge to make sure that doesn’t overawe them – play the game and not the occasion.

“I feel it’s a game that we’ll have opportunities in, most definitely. It’s whether or not we take them. We’ll try to do that, obviously.

“Bradford are a settled squad with a manager who understands how to be successful in this league.

“It’ll be a tough game for us, but it’ll be a tough game for them as well. Our players are ready.”

Bradford have won both of their home matches in the league – 2-1 against Oldham and 4-1 against Stevenage, with ex-Walsall man Andy Cook scoring a hat-trick in the latter. They lost 2-0 at Leyton Orient last weekend, though.

“The players will know everything they possibly can about the opposition and understand what’s coming,” said Taylor.

“We need to be confident, because why wouldn’t we be?

“If I was sat in the players’ shoes right now and had the opportunity to play in front of 16,000 fans, I’d be desperate to succeed.

“What an opportunity for our players and our supporters will be there. They’ve already shown us that they’ll travel the length of the country – and they’ll do it again.”

Walsall are hoping to have Tyrese Shade back involved after several weeks out with an injury issue.

Rory Holden remains out, but deadline day signing George Miller is set to be in the squad.

On forward Miller, Taylor said: “He’s ready and desperately happy to get going. George comes into a group of players that are buoyant, so there’s a challenge there for him.

“We’re really happy he comes into the squad to offer more competition at the top end of the pitch.

“We’ve created lots of chances this season but haven’t put enough away. It’s about more consistency.

“We’re really looking forward to the game. What an opportunity. It’ll be brilliant.”