Former Barry Town United captain James Saddler believes former side can challenge for JD Welsh Premier League title

Former Barry Town United captain James Saddler thinks that his former side has the talent to challenge for the JD Welsh Premier League title this season. 

It has been a tremendous start from Saddler’s former side and the Linnets currently sit joint top of the league, alongside Connah’s Quay Nomads. “The talent is certainly there in the squad,” admitted Saddler.

“Last season was a settling in process for the club, getting used to the additional travel and the step up in quality but once they found their feet in the second half of last season, I think they showed they can be competitive in the Welsh Premier League and they have continued that form into this season.”

He also believes that Barry manager Gavin Chesterfield, who has now been in charge of the club for over 400 appearances will ensure to keep them on the right path between now and the end of the season.

He said: It is very cliché but they will just be taking it one game at a time and I’m sure Gav will be keeping everyone well-grounded and focused on their targets for the season.”

And he feels that Chesterfield has had a major impact on the Vale of Glamorgan outfit and reckons Barry will be battling at the top of the table come the end of the season.

“I know Gav doesn’t like to take credit for the team’s success but it’s clear that he’s a major factor and a driving force behind what the club is doing, on and off the pitch, both now and in recent years.

“It’s still early days but Barry have shown that they can beat anyone on their day and if they can keep up their consistency then I see no reason why they won’t be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.”

(Featured image: Will Cheshire)