Walsall stand-ins have to show we're ready - Hornby

Sam Hornby has played league football for Port Vale, Bradford City and Colchester United before joining Walsall

Walsall goalkeeper Sam Hornby says it is important he and the rest of the Saddlers' squad players show head coach Mat Sadler they are "champing at the bit" to get their chance in the first team.

Hornby was one of nine changes made by Sadler for Tuesday's Vertu Trophy game against Chelsea Under-21s as the Saddlers claimed a bonus-point win with their 4-2 victory on penalties following a goalless 90 minutes.

Hornby, who saved one of the Blues' spot-kicks in the shootout, was making just his fourth appearance of the season, having now played all three Trophy ties so far and one Carabao Cup game.

"They're very good footballers and will probably have unbelievable careers so you've got to be on your mettle when you play these under-23 teams," the 30-year-old told BBC Radio WM.

"I'm delighted to get back out there playing again for a little while and show everyone what I can do and I'm still eager to be out there normally all the time.

"It was important for those of us who haven't been playing to show the manager we're still champing at the bit to get out there.

"On a personal note I'm pleased with how I performed."

Hornby joined Walsall from Colchester United last season but was number two to Stoke loanee Tommy Simkin for the majority of a campaign that ended in defeat by AFC Wimbledon in the League Two play-off final at Wembley.

This term, he has been kept out of the league side by another temporary signing, Myles Roberts, who is on a season's loan from Watford.

With the Saddlers top of the table 14 games in, Hornby says he cannot have too many complaints.

"I'm always training well and keeping my head down and I've been in this game long enough now to know you never know what's round the corner and you might be required," he said.

"There's always a bit of me that wants to play and be out there. It's my job to push and work hard but I'm delighted for the team and Myles, we're top of the league - how could everyone not be happy?

"There's going to be that disappointment on a Friday lunchtime when the gaffer announces his side and you're not going to be part of it but, as long as we look after our own bit, we know we're ready and capable to go out there on a Saturday or Tuesday."

'An 11 will never win you a title'

After last season's near miss, Hornby said it is "clear and obvious" the squad want to win promotion this time but accepted there is still "a hell of a lot of football to come".

"We all know what we've got to do," he added. "League Two is relentless with so many good teams and managers. Everyone wants to knock us off the top so we have to make sure we keep performing.

"An 11 will never win you a title or get you success, I think that's pretty obvious when you look at the top of the Premier League right down professional football - it's a squad game.

"We have to make sure we're all ready and keep our standards high."