Left-back Luke Leahy says the Saddlers are determined to end Shrewsbury’s unbeaten run.
Town have made an outstanding start to the season and sit four points clear at the top of League One, having won nine and drawn two of their 11 matches.
With Walsall winless in three, Leahy would love nothing more than for the Saddlers to get back on track with victory against the Shrews.
“It’s a massive game,” he said. “Every game is big but this one is a derby. With the run they’re on, there’d be no better way to get back to winning ways by ending their unbeaten run.
“They were close to relegation last year and their manager has done a brilliant job and fair play to them.
“They’ll be coming here looking for a win and feeling confident, but we’ll be there looking to stop their record.”
The Saddlers are unbeaten in seven home matches this season in all competitions and Leahy believes the fans make a big difference.
“We’ve been really good at home this year and they’ll know that we’re stronger at home, like most teams are,” said the former Falkirk man.
“We seem to play more football and be more expressive at home.
“I don’t know why that is – we prepare the same, think the same and go into every match looking to win. But for some reason at home we seem to be a lot better.
“Maybe it’s having the fans behind you, especially in the second half when we’re kicking towards the Tile Choice Stand. It gives you a lift and that extra 20-30%.”