Another year, another season, or, in the immortal words of Status Quo, “Here we are and here we go”. Yes, it’s the opening day of yet another campaign, filled with optimism and not a little trepidation. Walsall are about to open up with an away fixture at Rotherham United, with thoughts in our minds that the last time that happened, we won 3 – 2 and got promoted!

So, what about Rotherham? Well, they have a new Manager, with folk hero Ronnie Moore having finally departed for pastures new, in the shape of possible Championship challengers Oldham Athletic. The new man at the helm is much travelled centre forward Mick Harford, who has had a difficult rebuilding job on his hands. He has stamped his mark on the club during pre-season by signing Colin Murdock from Crewe, Jon Otsemobor (despite Crewe being tipped to sign the former Liverpool youngster), David Worrell, Deon Burton and Lee Williamson and has recently added to them goalkeeper Neil Cutler from Stockport, to help replace the experienced Mike Pollitt, now a premiership keeper.

Firepower is the thing that worries the Millers fans, with just ex Saddlers strikers Martin Butler and new signing Deon Burton as the only two goalscorers with any real experience. They do, however, have their own equivalent of Matty Fryatt in the shape of Will Hoskins. The 19 year old has just received another England under 20’s call up for their game in Russia shortly. Attacking midfielder Jamal Campbell-Rice also poses a threat in front of goal.

And the Saddlers? Well, an idea of the line up might be nice! Chris Westwood and Steve Staunton are both suspended and Ian Roper and Paul Smith are both on their way back from injury and are unlikely to play. Merson also has difficult choices in midfield, with so many names to pick from, but I would expect to see Osborn (outstanding in pre-season) and Standing (as Vice Captain, in the absence of Westwood) start. I would think we’ll see a 4 5 1, along these lines:

Oakes, Pead, Gerrard, Bennett, Fox, Wright, Osborn, Standing, Taylor, Wrack, Leitao,

with Fryatt, Harkness, Smith, Roper and Coleman on the bench.

Predictions? At full strength, I’d expect to come away from Millmoor with something, but a defence consisting of four foetuses does worry me, considering the know-how and experience of Butler and Burton. I’d be happy with a point, but my head says we might struggle to get even that.

For those going to brave whatever conditions the semi demolished ground may bring, don’t forget Geordie’s Pub Guide, below!