Walsall defender Harrison Burke believes the club's summer reset has drawn a line under last season's disappointment. The Saddlers finished 13th in League Two with 65 points (18W-11D-17L) after a dramatic collapse from the Christmas summit, but Burke sees positive signs in the changes made this summer.
What happened last season?
Burke's debut campaign was disrupted by a long-term knee injury that sidelined him for nearly four months. Despite scoring twice in 22 appearances, Walsall's form plummeted after Christmas, culminating in a 3-1 loss to Bromley on May 2, 2026. The team's recent form saw them lose four of their last five matches (LLLLW).
Why the summer overhaul matters
Since then, Walsall have appointed Lee Grant as head coach, released 14 players, and signed six new faces. Burke feels this refresh has lifted the mood. "I feel like that cloud has almost gone," he said. "The new players weren't part of last season's struggles, which helps us move forward."
What comes next for Walsall?
Burke is determined to prove a point this season. "We’ve got to show the fans we’re ready to play for this club," he said. "We don’t want to be in this league next season." With Walsall finishing 22 points behind leaders Bromley last term, the pressure is on to improve.
