As Newport County prepare to welcome league leaders Walsall to Rodney Parade this Saturday, we take a closer look at the Saddlers ahead of what promises to be another thrilling League Two encounter.
Walsall’s Story
Founded in 1888, Walsall Football Club, nicknamed The Saddlers, are one of the oldest clubs in the English Football League. Based in the West Midlands, they have played at the Poundland Bescot Stadium since 1990, a ground with a capacity of just over 11,000.
The club’s proud history has seen spells in all three divisions of the EFL. Their most successful period came in the early 2000s when they enjoyed several seasons in the Championship, recording a highest-ever league finish of 18th in the second tier in 2002–03.
In recent years, Walsall have become an established League Two side, steadily rebuilding under a new direction. After reaching last season’s play-off final but narrowly missing out on promotion, they have begun the 2025–26 campaign in impressive form, sitting at the top of the table and showing real intent to go one better this time around.
The Head Coach
Mat Sadler leads the Saddlers from the dugout. The former defender, who made over 100 appearances for the club across two playing spells, took over as head coach in 2023 after retiring.
Sadler has built a side known for its organisation, intensity and ability to strike quickly in transition. His squad plays with a clear identity, compact defensively, athletic in midfield and clinical in the final third, making them one of the toughest teams to beat in League Two this season.
The Captain
While Jamille Matt serves as club captain, experienced centre-back Aden Flint has been the recurring on-field captain throughout the 2025–26 season.
Matt, a familiar face to County fans, spent two seasons at Rodney Parade between 2018 and 2020, where he became a fan favourite for his tireless work rate and leadership. Flint, meanwhile, brings a wealth of experience from higher divisions, having previously played for Bristol City, Middlesbrough and Cardiff City. His influence and composure at the back have been vital to Walsall’s defensive strength this campaign.
Key Players
Aaron Pressley is a powerful forward signed from Stevenage, and he has quickly become one of Walsall’s main attacking outlets. Strong in hold-up play and clinical inside the box, he offers a direct goal threat and complements the team’s dynamic attacking style. The Scottish striker has found the back of the net four times already this season and, along with his strike partner Daniel Kanu, will be a real handful for the County defence.
Walsall’s attacking 3-5-2 formation relies heavily on their wing-backs, with Evan Weir and Connor Barrett proving key to their success so far. Both are extremely attack-minded, providing width and energy throughout matches. Weir has scored four goals already this season, while Barrett has three to his name. Barrett also leads in assists, setting up two goals compared to Weir’s one. Their consistent forward contributions make them significant threats that Dave Hughes and his side will need to account for on Saturday.
With Walsall flying high at the top of the table and County looking to build on recent momentum, this weekend’s fixture promises to be an exciting contest. The Amber Army’s backing could make all the difference as the Exiles aim to deliver another big performance at Rodney Parade.
Secure your tickets HERE and get behind the team as they take on the league leaders this Saturday.
