Weston: Manny's the real deal for Walsall FC

Mar 26 2009 by Brian Halford, Birmingham Mail

“But Manny has been patient and with Stephen Roberts having had injury problems this season, he got his chance. And he has taken it brilliantly. He is growing in stature game by game.

“He is almost making that position his own now. Manny and Anthony, if fit, will play.

‘‘And that’s all credit to him because if he continues to develop the way he has he could definitely play at this level, if not the one above”

Weston himself has had a valuable input to Walsall’s defence of late.

The former Cardiff player has often moved across from his specialist right-back slot into the centre to deputise for Gerrard and is set for that role again against Cheltenham.

Gerrard, only just back from a hamstring injury, is now nursing a calf strain picked up in the 3-0 win over Brighton nine days ago.

“It is very unfortunate for Anthony,” Weston said.

“He was having an outstanding game against Brighton until he came off. He looked back to his best even though it was only his second game back.

“But whoever goes in there will cope. Chris Palmer was unfortunate to be left out for a couple of the games so he is champing at the bit.”