The January transfer window is looming large and it is usually a time Walsall fans fear.
Last season’s January window saw the capitulation of the season when striker Elijah Adebayo was sold and not replaced.
Transfer windows in recent years have failed to inspire the Walsall faithful.
Matt Taylor’s first window as Saddlers boss impressed fans bringing in quality players like Joss Labadie and Carl Rushworth.
Now is the time for Taylor to do what his predecessors have failed to do, improve the squad in January and finish the season strong.
Here’s five bits of business Matt Taylor needs to do
Hold on to key players
As a lower league club, January is always a tough time, the bigger clubs come knocking and try to sign the gems of the lower leagues, Adebayo being a prime example of this.
Loanees George Miller and Carl Rushworth have starred for the Saddlers this season, however it’s always a worry loan players will be recalled.
Walsall need to do everything possible to keep Rushworth, Miller and Menayese at the club until the end of the season.
Sign a Striker
Walsall fans have been asking for a striker since the summer.
George Miller has been excellent in front of goal. Seven goals so far this season is the most of any Walsall player, however with Wilkinson and Phillips preferred on the wings, it leaves Miller as the clubs only out and out striker.
Bringing in a quality striker to compete with or play in a duo up top with Miller would be an excellent bit of business.
The winter period is known for being a hectic time with games coming thick and fast, especially this year with the postponements.
An alternate option to Miller upfront would be a valuable resource to Taylor. If a permanent signing can be made it would put fans at ease if any loans are to leave this window.
Sign a Full back
Walsall have been short in the full back area.
Hayden White has impressed at Right back, however Stephen Ward has flattered to deceive and the alternative is Zak Mills who’s been injured most of the season.
Otis khan has played well in a full back role although he’s shown more promise in an attacking role.
A Left back would be ideal, someone with pace, strength and keen defensive instincts as well as being able to fly forward when the play is turned over.
More than likely Taylor would look to sign a versatile full back capable of playing on the left and right as suspensions and injuries will call for a versatile defender.
Sign a Menayese
Rollin Menayese has been a revelation at centre half this season forming a formidable partnership with Manny Monthe.
Whilst Pomlett and Taylor will be focused on making sure the defender doesn’t return to his parent club Mansfield, it would be in the clubs best interest to make Rollin’s move permanent to fend off competition in the summer when his loan expires.
Taylor and Pomlett have both expressed interest in bringing Menayese on a permanent basis and the player has also said he’d like a place to call home after several loan moves.
He’s become one of the favourites of the fans this piece of business would be a slam dunk for the club.
Give Otis Khan a contract
Easily the most obvious on this list, Otis Khan has joined on a short term basis and has been brilliant so far filling at Right back and starring in an attacking role.
His brace and assist against Colchester makes the case for this by itself.
Provided the player wants to stay this seems like a win win. Khan gets to hone his skills and show off what he can do and Taylor gets another attacking option who can provide goals and assists and help towards his play offs ambition.
Piece written by Harley Sheldon.
Featured Image – Reuters.
