Walsall plays crucial match despite five player absences

Walsall's football manager, Mat Sadler, spoke about the tough decision not to postpone their upcoming match against Gillingham. The team is missing five players due to international call-ups and will struggle without them. Three of these missing players are regular starters. The players called up include goalkeeper Tommy Simkin and striker Ethan Wheatley, both playing for England youth teams. Defender Liam Gordon is with Guyana, while David Okagbue and Darius Lipsiuc are with the Republic of Ireland. Additionally, wing-back Connor Barrett is suspended for two matches after receiving ten yellow cards. Walsall is in a tight spot as they have not won a match since February 22, causing pressure on their position as leaders in League Two. The manager mentioned that the only date available for a rescheduled match would mean playing four games in nine days. Sadler explained that they felt forced into playing the game rather than rescheduling, despite the team's difficulties. He acknowledged the challenges posed by missing key players but expressed confidence in his remaining squad. Meanwhile, Gillingham's manager, John Coleman, downplayed Walsall's situation saying many teams face injuries and absences. He believes that Walsall still has a strong squad and looks forward to a competitive match. Gillingham expects to challenge Walsall despite their struggles in recent games.