In recent weeks, Emmanuel Osadebe has grasped the opportunity for more game time, and has stepped up to become one of the key players for Matt Taylor, and for the resurgent midfield.
His form has coincided with a reshuffle in midfield, and it is proving to be a solid core of the team that overseen an upturn in form, and more importantly, results going the way of the Saddlers.
Midfield combination suiting Osadebe
Osadebe has featured in 12 of Walsall’s 13 league games this season, starting seven of these. However it has been his last four starts that have seen his form grow, and the with it, the whole teams performance. He has settled into a central midfield that has become very stable which started with the return of Joss Labadie after suspension.
Labadie returning into central midfield, along with an in-form Jack Earing, has allowed Osadebe to push forward into a number 10 role. He has become more and more effective, as was highlighted in a performance mid-week that saw him score and assist. Goals and chances are starting to come for Osadebe, who registered his first of the season against Northampton in the EFL Trophy earlier in the month.
Engine room of the team
This midfield combination has overseen a big improvement in form. Since the three players have combined in a midfield three with Osadebe occupying a more attacking role, they have drawn against Exeter and Leyton Orient, an beaten Salford and Oldham. Eight points from 12 is a fantastic return, and the midfield has to take a lot of the credit for it, and becoming more effective within matches.
Osadebe pushing forward is helping Walsall’s attack with more outlets. Alongside Osadebe, is Jack Earing, who has adapted to become a solid number eight. This can only be achieved with Labadie acting as the anchor to this midfield three however, and as long as each player sticks to their roles, Walsall will have a strong dynamic central midfield.
Osaadebe had been criticised for his defensive efforts when playing in the role that Earing is now in. Switching them around has been a good move for Taylor, but it also allows the side to press higher up the pitch. Osadebe has looked strong and quick in attack, which was seen in his goal against Oldham.
Featured image – @emelpee_
