Walsall are emerging as the most threatening force in the fourth tier as they sit top of the table, four points above Port Vale with an extra game in hand.

The Saddlers could go out of sight with a win away at Harrogate Town this weekend, extending the gap to seven points dependent on results elsewhere. Two stalwarts have contributed massively to the success Walsall have enjoyed thus far – both of which are on loan from Stoke City.

Nathan Lowe and Tommy Simkin play at opposite ends of the starting eleven but both share this commonality as they look to impress the Potters while away gaining experience. Simkin has kept eight clean sheets while only seeing 18 goals get past him in the league. The 19-year-old striker on the other hand, has netted nine division goals and contributed four assists to the leaders.

While these aren’t the only heroes this season, the performances of the Stoke players have certainly rubbed off on a few others; a step up in quality has simultaneously emerged at Walsall. Centre-back Taylor Allen has scored an exceptional five goals as well as provide two assists this season. Width has been Walsall’s strong point, so David Okagbue and Connor Barrett’s link-up down the right-hand side has equated to nine goal contributions between them in League Two.

This festive period will be crucial for the Saddlers as they face mixed opposition from now until the new year. Two visits from Doncaster Rovers and Newport County follow a Saturday welcome to the Exercise Stadium by Harrogate. If the squad can remain focused and committed to the form they are in, there is no reason why nine points cannot be accumulated as a perfect Christmas gift.

A Future Beyond Walsall…

With Viktor Johansson continuing to impress for Stoke, the 20-year-old shot stopper could play the understudy to the Swede upon his return to the Bet365 Stadium in the summer. Simkin continues to impress for Walsall while Stoke look to nurture their young talent away from the gruelling Championship season.

Lowe himself, will be looking to elevate the Potters’ attacking options next season if this loan spell propels him up Narcis Pelach’s pecking order. 13 goal contributions so far this season has clearly proven that the 19-year-old is way too good for this league.