FORMER Saddlers' player-coach, Mark Kinsella is preparing for what he readily admits will be a tough League One campaign.

The ex-Republic of Ireland International is now assistant manager at newly-relegated Charlton Athletic, who Walsall visit in August. "We are looking forward to the new season getting underway," he said. "There are still a lot of things that need to be sorted both on and off-the-pitch, but we will be ready and raring to go come August 8th.

"We have the added pressure of being one of the favourites for promotion and, in effect, will face 23 FA Cup ties at home. There are some strong clubs at this level in the likes of Norwich City, Southampton and Leeds United whilst teams like Walsall and Colchester United will also prove to be tricky opposition.

"League One will be stronger than it has been for quite some time, but we look forward to the challenge. It will be an exciting year for all involved."