Player-manager Paul Merson believes Walsall must give youth its chance next season - regardless of whether they escape relegation.

The Saddlers must beat visiting Rotherham on Sunday if they are to have any chance of beating the drop.

But Merson has taken time out from the club's immediate problems to focus on Walsall's long-term prospects.

He said: "Ideally I'd like to see a young team here next season. Whoever is manager next season and wherever the club are playing, I hope they'll give the youngsters here a chance.

"You've got to bring the young ones through but since I came in as manager we've always been chasing and you don't want to put kids straight into that environment.

"When you're bringing in new talent you've got to give them at least 20 games or so to allow them to find their feet."