'It's my time' says Walsall's Browne

Rico Browne has made 13 appearances for Walsall since joining from Birmingham City

Walsall defender Rico Browne says he is looking at this season as his time to shine after becoming a first-team regular over the last month.

The 21-year-old former Birmingham City academy player has started the last seven matches in all competitions for the Saddlers and scored his first goal for the club in Saturday's 4-2 win at Newport, a result that kept Walsall top of League Two.

Browne joined the Saddlers on an initial one-year deal in September 2024 but only played three EFL Trophy games in the remainder of that season.

His deal was was then extended by a further 12 months to cover this campaign.

After playing the first two league games this term, Browne featured in only one more before starting his current run in Mat Sadler's first XI.

"I wouldn't call it a second shot. I feel like now is more the time for me to get out there and show what I can do," Browne told BBC Radio WM.

Looking back on his start to life at Walsall, Browne said it was "a very good learning curve."

"I probably didn't play as much as I wanted [last season] but the gaffer had a plan for me.

"Now I can see the rewards for sitting out last season. I feel like it was my first time cementing into men's football in the league.

"Even at Birmingham I was training with the first team but I didn't get that feel of being part of the squad.

"It made it easier coming into this season because I know how to act and how to be."

Lambs move 'really helped'

Browne credits his loan move to Tamworth, shortly after he joined the Saddlers, in helping him get to grips with playing at right-back.

"That was my first time playing there and I gained a lot of experience positionally and going forward."

That threat from the back was rewarded with his first goal against Newport which Browne said was a "great moment".

"I know it takes a while for some people, but I'm glad to get it out of the way because it was something I was really looking forward to.

"It's about consistency and making sure I take my opportunity and I feel I've done that.

"Now I'm here, I'm not stopping. I'm going to build on every opportunity I have."