Facey in line for Walsall return

Posted Friday, December 27, 2019 by PA

Walsall may shuffle their pack as they look to continue their fine recent form when they host Carlisle in Sky Bet League Two on Sunday.

Defender Shay Facey was not risked on Boxing Day due to recent muscular injuries but could come back into contention at right-back after James Clarke covered in the position for the 2-0 win at Scunthorpe, which extended their unbeaten league run to six matches.

Alfie Bates should retain his place in central midfield after scoring the Saddlers’ second goal at Scunthorpe, while on-loan striker Rory Gaffney is likely to start in attack again.

Centre-back Zak Jules is another option for boss Darrell Clarke, but he has not played since November 9 so is set to remain on the bench, while former Newcastle midfielder Danny Guthrie is pushing for a recall.

Carlisle could stick with the team that held Bradford to a goalless draw on Boxing Day.

Manager Chris Beech recalled 17-year-old Jarrad Branthwaite for the match after a bout of illness and he is in line to remain in the heart of the defence alongside Byron Webster.

Fellow defenders Jack Iredale and Jon Mellish were unused substitutes last time out but could come in if Beech decides to make changes.

Harry McKirdy came off the bench after he was also laid low by illness and is a possibility to replace striker Mo Sagaf, who made his first league start since early November against the Bantams.