For the second time this season, Walsall fans have to say goodbye to an old favourite.

Zigor Aranalde had his critics, but was always appreciated for his efforts by many Walsall fans, so his leaving without warning was seen as a lost opportunity to say goodbye. Fans will be pleased to here that, despite the fact he has been released from his contract early to allow for his move to New Zealand, Neil Emblen should be at the final game of the season against Stockport to allow the opportunity for the fans to show their appreciation for his efforts, according to the Express and Star.

“Slaphead” wigs may well be in evidence.

Paul Merson was being interviewed on the Talk Sport Breakfast Show this morning by Brazil and Beecroft and said what many a Walsall supporter will have wanted to hear.

He was asked what it was like to be managing lesser players who were incapable of doing the things he did. His answer was that he has players capable of playing at a higher level and the only thing that had held us back this season was inconsistency, caused mainly by his team selection and tactical decisions. Let’s hope this is a real sign that he has learned his lessons at last and that we can look forward to a much more successful season next year.