Walsall vs Bradford AFC - Dean Smith set to name unchanged Walsall side

Posted Thursday, November 26, 2015 by PA

Walsall are likely to be unchanged despite a 2-1 defeat at Swindon in midweek.

Boss Dean Smith called the last-minute loss 'criminal' and is set to give his side the chance to put it right against Bradford.

Sam Mantom (ankle) remains doubtful while Isaiah Osbourne, who is yet to make his Walsall debut after signing in the summer, is continuing his recovery from a knee injury but is not match fit.

Manchester City loanee George Evans is available after extending his deal at the Saddlers until January.

Bradford defender James Meredith is expected to return to contention following an ankle injury sustained while on international duty with Australia.

But left-back Meredith may have to make do with a place on the bench due to the current form of Greg Leigh, who has featured in the last four of Bradford's seven-game run without conceding a goal.

Striker James Hanson shook off an ankle injury in time to start in the goalless midweek draw against Coventry and boss Phil Parkinson must decide whether to recall recent loan signing Jordan Bowery to the starting line-up.

Defender Reece Burke could return to contention after a knee injury and midfielder Josh Morris, an unused substitute in the last three matches, is hoping to make his first appearance since September after knee ligament damage.