Former Doncaster man loving life at Banks's Stadium...
JAMES Baxendale is looking forward to returning to his hometown on Saturday as The Saddlers take on Doncaster Rovers.It will be Baxendale's first return to the Keepmoat Stadium since leaving the club during the summer.
The 20 year-old, who made his senior Walsall debut against Rovers back in August, came through the youth ranks at Leeds United before joining Doncaster in the summer of 2011.
He got an early taste of first-team action but failed to cement a place in the side and was sent out on loan to Hereford United towards the end of the campaign.
"I have some good memories of my time at Doncaster," he said. "Making my professional debut for my hometown club was special and there are some good people involved with the club, but it became frustrating as I didn't get to show the fans what I could do."
Baxendale will be looking to make an impact at the weekend as we look to continue our impressive recent form that has yielded seven wins out of the last nine games.
"It's a big game," he added. "I have a lot of friends who are Doncaster fans, so I am really looking forward to it.
"We've been on a great run and we'll be looking to continue what we've been doing and really kick on. There is no question that Doncaster are a good side and they've been up there all season, but there are not too many points between most clubs in this League.
"We've climbed the table well recently and sit in a good position at this stage."
The Saddlers fell to a 3-0 reverse at the hands of Rovers on the opening day of the League One season. That scoreline certainly didn't reflect the performance on the day.
"We will learn from that game," added Baxendale, who made a total of three substitute appearances for th Yorkshire outfit. "I recall that we actually played quite well that day and kept the ball well.
"The result certainly flattered them, so we will be looking to redress the balance on Saturday.
"It will be a different game this time around; they have a new managerial team and we go there right on form.
"We've got some good games coming up to look forward to. The challenge is there for us and it is one that we are up for.
"It's always nice to be in the team and playing; I just enjoy being out there and playing football. The style of play here has really suited me and I am pleased with the progress I have made.
"It's also been nice to weigh in with a few goals and hopefully a few more will follow. This is a great place to be alongside similar young and hungry players who want to progress."