Walsall boss Paul Merson has offered defender Steve Staunton an extended contract until the end of the season following a string of impressive performances from the veteran.
The former Republic of Ireland international arrived at Bescot Stadium in the summer from Coventry City and agreed a rolling deal on a weekly basis but has begun his Saddlers career with two commanding displays.
"He's a good pro, he's full of experience and makes the game look very easy," said Merson who also revealed the defender would we returning to the starting line up to face Swansea City on Saturday.
"We need to play football from the back at home and try and break teams down, at home he's a must." added Merson.
Merson has also offered Staunton the chance to begin the transition from playing to coaching, a process that began this week when he helped Mark Kinsella with the reserves in their match with Stoke City.
"You can't have someone of that experience and not ask their advice it would be suicidal," Merson said. "He took the reserves because Mark played on Wednesday and when we went to Palace on Tuesday he took the reserves training.
"He worked on three at the back so he's got good experience and he wants to get into this side of things, its a good start for him as well."
Staunton had long spells at Aston Villa and Liverpool winning the league and FA Cup during his time at Anfield. He also won 102 international caps for the Republic of Ireland.
Merson also revealed he would be making changes to the team on Saturday and Monday whatever the results but confirmed he would be playing two up front.
He also refused to be drawn into any more speculation surrounding Matty Fryatt.
"We've had no offers, but its my big fear now, because it getting to a week, anything after that its going to be hard for me to bring someone in. Hopefully we will keep him though," said Merson.
It is now rumoured that Wigan could be interested in the England Under-19 striker, since the loss of Nathan Ellington to West Bromwich Albion this week.
Walsall have already rejected a bid of less than £500,000 from Nottingham Forest for the young forward who has scored 19 goals in 30 starts.
