Walsall are gearing up for a pivotal League Two clash this Saturday as they welcome local rivals and fellow promotion hopefuls Port Vale to the Bescot Stadium. With both teams vying for a spot in the top tier of the table, the stakes are high—and the Saddlers have been handed a timely boost on the injury front.

George Hall – Hamstring (Fully Recovered)

Mat Sadler has provided an encouraging update on Birmingham City loanee George Hall, who is now fully recovered from the hamstring issue that had sidelined him in recent weeks. Although Hall was absent from Walsall’s hard-fought 2-2 draw away at Doncaster Rovers, this was part of a pre-agreed arrangement with Birmingham City rather than a fitness setback.

The 19-year-old midfielder had already made a brief return to action during the 1-1 draw with AFC Wimbledon at Bescot, coming off the bench to feature late in the game. Sadler has confirmed that Hall will be available for selection once again this weekend—though it remains to be seen whether he is fit enough to start or will be used as an impact substitute.

“George is available for selection, but I don't know whether that's from the start or the bench,” Sadler admitted. “He’s made good progress, but we’ll assess where he’s at physically closer to the game.”

Ethan Wheatley – Illness (Fully Recovered)

Another boost for the Saddlers comes in the form of Ethan Wheatley, who is also back in contention after missing the last two fixtures due to illness. The Manchester United loanee had been under the weather following his recent international duty with the England under-19 squad, where he picked up a virus that kept him out of action.

Thankfully, Wheatley has now fully recovered and returned to training, and Sadler confirmed he will be part of the matchday squad for the visit of Port Vale. His return adds further attacking depth to the Walsall frontline at a crucial stage of the season.

With two key players returning to the fold and the team’s sights firmly set on promotion, Saturday’s clash at Bescot promises to be a high-octane affair full of intensity, passion, and local pride.