DEAN Smith insists Walsall have nothing to fear from a tough-looking home double-header against promotion-chasing Rochdale and Southampton in the next four days.

The Saddlers’ recent improvement has put them back in the survival race but they have plenty still to do.

Smith’s side have played more games than most of their rivals and must keep banking wins, especially at home.

Bang-in-form Rochdale, beaten only once in ten games, and fifth-placed Southampton, second-highest away scorers in the division, will be difficult opposition tomorrow and next Tuesday.

But four points or more from the two games would give the Saddlers a terrific springboard towards the crucial visit to Swindon tomorrow week. And Smith sees no reason why such a haul is beyond his team.

“They will be tough games,” he said.

“Rochdale are on a great run and Southampton have one of the bigger budgets in the division but they are both games I feel we can win.

“Our performances at home have certainly improved.