Birmingham City loanee George Hall backed to play 'massive' role for Walsall

The 20-year-old netted Walsall's second goal in their 3-0 win over Shrewsbury Town in the EFL Trophy last week to open his goal scoring account for the club. 

Hall, who arrived at Bescot on transfer deadline day, has made just three starts for the Saddlers following an injury-ridden 18 months. 

But the midfielder has registered assists against Grimsby Town and Crewe Alexandra respectively via his recent cameos from the bench since returning from a minor back injury in September. 

And Byfield feels the youngster could be "massively" important in helping provide fourth-place Walsall with another boost in their quest to achieve promotion. 

"Massive," first team coach Byfield responded when asked how important George Hall can be this season. "It took time obviously he's had his injuries which would've definitely knocked his confidence. 

"Now we're seeing him come out of his shell and his performances and him as a person as well. I'm looking at him and everybody is thinking, this boy is some talent and he is a powerful player. 

"You look at the goal (against Shrewsbury) and I don't think there's many people that can score those types of goals because he's so quick and strong with it and was just determined to get that goal. 

"He's been making an impact coming off the bench with assists so I was happy he started and got a goal."