Walsall's Finnigan feels he has a lot to prove

Ryan Finnigan's two goals against Newport took his tally to the season to three after also scoring against Shrewsbury in the Vertu Trophy in September

Versatile Walsall midfielder Ryan Finnigan says this season is a "big one for me" as he tries to earn more regular first-team football.

The 22-year-old former Southampton youth product is with the Saddlers on a season-long loan from Blackpool and scored his first two league goals for the club in Saturday's 4-2 win at Newport County.

That result maintained Walsall's lead at the top of League Two on goal difference from Swindon Town.

"I was just happy to be out there again," Finnigan, who was making his first start more than a month, told BBC Radio WM.

"It's been difficult to be on the sidelines but that's the reality of football and I've learnt a lot from that period - to be ready when the gaffer [Mat Sadler] needs you."

Since arriving from the Tangerines, Finnigan has made 12 appearances in the league, with half of those from the bench.

Finnigan says the quality of the Saddlers' squad has meant he has had to be patient for a regular shot in the first team.

"We've got a really good squad and that has its pros and cons," he added.

"But it drives training. If you not in one week, the gaffer always says how important the squad's going to be.

"At times it's difficult to understand that but it requires you to see a different side and respect is massive.

"I am enjoying it here - it's got its ups and downs - we have a great squad and you need that to be top of the league."

'It feels like a big season for me. I'm dying to do well'

After returning from a loan spell with Crewe Alexandra in the second half of the 2022-23 season, where he scored once in 16 league games, Finnigan has struggled for game time.

He played three times in four-month loan with Shrewsbury Town the following season before a permanent move to Blackpool in January 2024.

Finnigan featured from the start in only two of 10 league games ahead of his temporary switch to the West Midlands this term.

He is hoping his goal-scoring exploits at the weekend can be the start of a more consistent first-team run.

"The last year and a half has been really challenging. I've struggled with injury and being out of favour. I feel like I've got a lot to prove," Finnigan said.

"Going to Crewe was a good thing and I came back to League Two wanting to show everyone how good I am and when you're not really getting that opportunity and not playing every game it can be really challenging.

"You've got to stay mentality strong. I've got to control what I can control but it does feel like a big season for me. I'm dying to do well."

Following last season's near miss on promotion, Walsall are on course to give themselves another chance at going up.

Finnigan says he has noticed that determination since signing.

"I wasn't part of it last year but when I came it felt fresh," he said. "The whole culture's been great.

"Everyone's still got the clear aim to get out of this league. It's great to be part of it and it's nice to be winning games because it's something I've not really had many times."