IAN ROPER returned to The Saddlers' starting line-up on Saturday and is determined to stay there.

Our form this season has restricted Roper to just eight appearances but now the 30 year-old defender is looking to make up for lost time.

"It's nice to get back in the team," he said. "It's been frustrating being out of the team but the lads have been doing well and I've had to bide my time. I haven't had any complaints because, as I said, the lads have been playing really well.

"Hopefully though, I can now get a run of games and come back stronger than ever. I've played with Anthony Gerrard quite a lot in the past and I think we have a good partnership, which will get better the more we play together.

"In terms of weight this is the lightest I've been for a number of years and maybe that is down to the fact that I haven't been playing.

"That may sound strange but, when you're not in the team, getting into the team is all you focus on. Not playing means you train to your maximum before and after games and all you are thinking about is being ready when you're chance comes around.

"That has happened and I want to take the chance with both hands."

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