Sam Mantom happy to be back in Walsall team after 'nightmare season'

Walsall midfielder Sam Mantom has said that he is happy to be back in the squad after spending the majority of last season on the sidelines with a knee injury.

Mantom, 23, has featured in each of the Saddlers' eight competitive matches this season.

"Last season was a nightmare," Mantom told Walsall's official website. "It was awful not playing. I remember sitting in the stands watching every game pass by, and all you can do is go back in on a Monday and try to improve your injury.

"Some days I did not want to be here - but that is all gone now. I had the intent in the summer to come back in great shape to give myself a chance to progress.

"I couldn't be in a happier place at the minute - I have got no worries at all. Outside of football, life is brilliant as well. My main focus though is on Walsall and trying to help the team stay near the top of the league."

Mantom has already scored three goals this season, with Walsall riding high at the top of League One.