Smith prepares for Prenton Park bow

07 January 2011 14:00
Dean Smith takes charge of his first game as Walsall caretaker manager as they make the trip north to Tranmere. Head of youth Smith has taken the reins this week following the dismissal of Chris Hutchings and assistant Martin O'Connor, with physio John Whitney assisting him at Prenton Park. Victory would enhance Smith`s chances of possibly being awarded the position on a full-time basis and give the Saddlers a much-needed boost in their bid to climb out of the relegation zone, with the club eight points adrift of fifth-bottom Rovers. Smith will assess goalkeeper Jimmy Walker ahead of the encounter as he completes his recovery from a hamstring injury. Midfielder Richard Taundry has missed the last two games with an ankle injury and will again sit out while striker Darren Byfield (knee) is also missing but nearing his long-awaited return.

Source: PA