Here we have a Q and A with fans favourite Kris Taylor. Kris was a part of the 2006/07 League 2 winning team.
Firstly, how did your transfer to Walsall first come about?
Was about Christmas and Sir Alex had told me I wouldn’t be offered a new contract at the end of the season. Obviously with me being a localish lad people knew, and I had a call to go in to Walsall and have a chat with Colin Lee. I trained a few times and decided it would be a good move for both of us.
What was your favourite match to play in?
I have to say Notts County away when promotion was confirmed. It was a massive relief and I also won the grand national sweep on the coach too. Obviously Swindon game too was great especially when we stopped at the Air balloon pub with all the supporters on the way home.
What was your favourite goal?
My debut goal against Stoke would have to be my favourite Saddlers goal.
Who is the best player you ever played with?
I loved playing with Vinny Samways. For a young lad having him next to you talking to you was fantastic.
Who is the best player you ever played against?
Remember playing against Bolton in the cup when they were in the Prem. Anelka played with a cigar on and you could see how good he was.
How was it to score on your Saddlers debut?
It was great to score on my debut. My only disappointment is I haven’t got a clip of it.
What was it like being a part of a promotion winning side?
That was one of my best years in football. We had a great group of players and an unreal team spirit and that’s what won us the title.
We were all so pleased to see you fight against cancer, and get through it stronger than ever. How did you kick cancer, and come back to start playing again so quickly?
I never really looked at having cancer as something other than a bump in the road. Initially it was scary because you hear you’ve got cancer but once I knew my prognosis, I was able to deal with it very well. I tried to keep positive throughout and set myself targets and one was to play again that season. I was running on day 8 of chemo so my doctors thought I was an idiot. It was just my way of getting through it but had to be clear of certain situations because of my weakened immune system.
What I would say is that the support I received from Walsall fans with the 15 minutes applause was absolutely brilliant and one I was very grateful of.
What message or advice would you give to any Saddler currently battling against cancer?
From my experience I would say try to stay positive and listen to all the advice the specialists give you.
What was it like returning to the club on the opposing team?
It was very strange coming back as you’d spent so many occasions going in the home dressing room but it still seemed like home. I’ve played there a few times since in senior cups and charity games but always feels very familiar.
How did you feel about moving into management?
Moving towards coaching/managing is something I have always wanted to do. I’ve still a lot to learn and I will continue to do that.
What are you up-to in this lockdown?
As frustrating as this lock down is everybody is doing it for a very important reason. It’s not the worst thing being told to spend more time than you normally do with your wife and kids. With work and football I don’t get that much time with them so I’m really enjoying it as much as we want to kill each other at times. We are keeping very active going for runs, walks and bike rides around Cheslyn Hay.
Finally, what is next in the football career?
I joined Chasetown as a player coach a month or so ago which I’m really enjoying. It’s an opportunity to work with mark Swann who I feel I will learn a lot from at a fantastic club.
Thanks to Kris for answering those. We wish him well, and hope to see him back at the Bescot soon.
