Smith raring to get started...
AS THE players return to pre-season training, Saddlers' boss, Dean Smith, is happy with the programme of matches that we have in place.We have a total of three home games - against Championship outfits, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, and Premier League neighbours, Aston Villa - whilst on our travels we face the likes of Burton Albion, Kidderminster Harriers and Alfreton Town.
“It’s a good schedule,” said Smith. “The lads are really looking forward to it as we attempt to pick up from where we left off at the end of last season.
“We wanted a few different games from what we were used to and I am delighted that we will be playing host to Leeds, Nottingham Forest and, of course, Aston Villa on the eve of the season.
“There are some good tests coming up; it will be a busy time with some really challenging games to get the players to their peak in readiness for the start of the season on August 3rd.
“Things are moving in the right direction and we can’t wait for the pre-season matches to get underway.”
Our full schedule of pre-season is, as follows:
Wednesday,10 July v Halesowen Town (A) Kick-Off 7.30pm
Saturday, 13 July v Kidderminster Harriers (A) Kick-Off 3.00pm
Tuesday, 16 July v Alfreton Town (A) Kick-off 7.45pm
Wednesday, 17 July v Rushall Olympic (A) Kick-Off 7.30pm
Saturday, 20 July v Leeds United (H) Kick-Off 3.00pm
Tuesday, 23 July v Nottingham Forest (H) Kick-Off 7.30pm
Wednesday, 24 July v Chasetown (A) Kick-Off 7.30pm
Friday, 26 July v Burton Albion (A) Kick-Off 7.30pm
Wednesday, 31 July v Aston Villa (H) - 125th Anniversary Game