Walsall boss Mat Sadler says he would rather gamble by travelling to Gillingham without several key players than risk a fixture pile-up during the promotion run-in.
The Saddlers had the option to postpone Saturday’s trip to the Priestfield Stadium given they are missing three first-team regulars, and two on-loan youngsters, on international duty.
In addition, the League Two leaders also have wing-back Connor Barrett suspended and injury doubts over striker Ellis Harrison.
But Sadler insisted they would rather take their chances against John Coleman’s side and chalk off another fixture as they bid to keep the chasing pack at bay.
“We had the ability to request a postponement but that would have had real ramifications further down [the line] for fixture congestion so we didn’t want to do that,” said Sadler, whose side already face six games in April.
“We know it is going to be a tough game whatever. They have an incredibly experienced manager in John and we saw what a tough game it was a few weeks ago [against them] and we expect nothing different on Saturday.”
Walsall go into the weekend three points clear of Bradford City at the top of the table but without a win in five games.
They are also sweating on the availability of Harrison, who is “50-50”, having left the field injured early in the 2-2 draw against Bromley eight days ago.
Sadler, whose side have won just two of their past 12 games and drew 1-1 with the Gills at home in February, urged those filling to seize their chance this weekend.
“It gives a brilliant opportunity for some guys – we have always known we have a really good squad and everyone is going to be needed to play their part,” he said.
“That is no different on Saturday and no different the following Saturday. It is one to look forward to. It is a tough long journey but every game is tough and we have to be strong. It is a real opportunity to show that togetherness.”
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