Sunderland have apparently told Paul Merson that they do not want Joe Murphy cup-tied, so the Saddlers will be left with a problem for the trip to Merthyr Tydfil.

With club product Dean Coleman also cup tied, after playing for Halesowen in a previous round, whilst on loan there, Merson seems to be left with having to play virtually untried Irish youngster Rene Gillmartin in goal, with youth team ‘keeper Luke Tilt as the only back up.

Following the disaster of the first round exit at Slough last season, this will come as a blow, although the Saddlers ought to have more than enough in their locker to deal with the Welsh non league team, no matter how inexperienced the goalkeeper.