Walsall duo are reaping rewards

A sensational Ferrier goal together with a sublime Isaiah Osbourne strike saw the Saddlers secure a 2-1 win over Steve Lovell’s Gillingham on Saturday.

Despite impressive displays throughout the squad, it’s the performances of Ferrier and Cook that have really got fans excited with the duo having already struck up a promising partnership.

And Keates believes the duo – who were both signed from non-league in the summer – are getting their rewards for the hard work they put in.

“I signed Morgan because I knew what his strengths were and what he’s about,” Keates said.

“Against Gillingham he’s cut inside put one in the top corner. But then he cut inside and put another on the M6!

“I’m a firm believer that if you put the hard work in, you get the rewards. And Morgan puts the hard work in,” said Keates. “He gets a pat on the back. And with Cookie, he does parts of the game that people often don’t pick up on. He is a battering ram. He puts his body on the line, he wins headers, he’s getting smashed everywhere. But he is doing that for the team.”

Keates was thrilled with what was an overall impressive team performance against the Gills with the Saddlers dangerous going forward but also defending well.

And the boss says the players are taking what they are being told in training into matches.

“They know the minimum they have to do is work hard and give 110 per cent,” Keates continued. “I ask it of them Monday to Friday, we talk about habits in training.

“And if you do the right things in training Saturday becomes easy, you can go and enjoy it. We work on a lot of things but they take it on board.”

Meanwhile, Keates revealed Zeli Ismail missed the win against the Gills through injury with Kieron Morris stepping in for his first start of the season.

“Zeli is not a million miles away,” Keates added. “He had a bit of a niggle and wasn’t worth the risk. Kieron came in and was outstanding.”