Skipper looking to launch JPT run...
SADDLERS’ skipper, Andy Butler got his hands on the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy last week when it made a special appearance at the Walsall branch of Johnstone’s Paint and now it has whetted his appetite to do it for real on April 7th.
“It was the first time that I’d seen the trophy ‘in the flesh’ so to speak,” he said. “It was a lot heavier than I thought it would be, so if we are going to win it this year I’ll have to get on the weights before I lift it!
“Being realistic, this is one of only a couple of ways for us to get to Wembley and get our hands on some silverware. I know that Walsall have never played at Wembley, so to be the first captain to lead them out there would be amazing.
“Winning matches breeds confidence, so a good run in this competition would be really beneficial for us and offer extra games in which we can improve our performances.”
A tough first hurdle lies ahead this evening as we face a Port Vale side who have also started the season in a positive fashion and overcame League One leaders, Tranmere Rovers in the previous round.
“Both teams are doing well and scoring plenty of goals, plus it’s a local derby, so it has all the ingredients to be a great game,” added the popular central defender. “It’s been one of the most enjoyable seasons of my career so far. It really is a pleasure to be in this team; there’s a great spirit and atmosphere amongst the players and staff."
Saddlers Player subscribers can see an interview with Andy Butler later today...