Dunn impact

David Dunn - experience shows

WALSALL might be a bridge too far for David Dunn — but he is already making his presence felt on the training ground.

The vastly experienced 35-year-old ex-Blackburn midfield man, who signed one a one-year deal last week, is unlikely to be considered up to speed to play in Athletic’s season opener at the Banks’s Stadium.

Dunn started full training only this week, having kept himself fit over the summer. But his quality on the ball and character have already had a positive effect, says manager Darren Kelly.

“It might be that bit too soon for David,” Kelly said. “He only trained properly for the first time with us on Monday. Even then, it was clear to see the quality and touch he brings. He’s a big character and a leader. He adds something extra to us, especially with the younger players.”

Kelly selects from a fully-fit squad for Walsall and has several dilemmas in naming a starting XI.

He will discuss his options with assistant Dean Holden but not Jim Harvey, who left this week after only two months at the club.

Kelly says it was his decision to dispense with Harvey’s help: “With Dean Holden we are very hands-on in training,” Kelly added. “We didn’t really need a third person. I made the decision to go with two, rather than have someone there twiddling their thumbs.”

Meanwhile, Ryan Hiwat’s representative has answered criticism made following his exit.

The Dutch triallist is now pushing for a contract in the Championship with Wolves, despite Athletic feeling they had done enough to land him.

“Ryan was only ever due to spend a week at Oldham and he played in one trial game for 45 minutes,” said Hiwat’s representative, Joe Carr, who said the player paid his own travel costs to England, which would have been reimbursed if he had signed for Oldham.

“We felt there was no real commitment from the club. The initial quote we had was for between £700 and £900 a week in wages, but we were later told it would be £250 a week, while also being told Oldham really liked Ryan. For us, given the circumstances, it would be silly not to pursue the Wolves route.”

twitter: @Matt_Chambers_