SOME might say it has been because he has been so busy this season that Walsall's Jimmy Walker currently tops the Opta Nationwide League First Division Index for goalkeepers.

And there is probably some semblance of truth in the suggestion. For the Saddlers have found the going tough since they won promotion to Division One at the end of last season.

And the 24 goals they have conceded so far - their goal difference of minus 13 is the worst in the division - is evidence of the pressure that has been applied to the Walsall defence.

But Walker has still done enough to be the only keeper at this level with an average Opta Index rating in four-figures before Saturday's game against Ipswich at the Bescot Stadium.

Despite conceding 18 of those 24 goals, Walker's performances are underlined by the latest Opta breakdown. It shows an exceptional catch-success rate of 94 per cent and he has done well at stopping shots too, saving 75 per cent of opposition goal attempts. But it hasn't all been plain sailing for Walker.

The keeper has just paid a club fine and apologised to his manager for picking up a yellow card for dissent in the recent game at Portsmouth.

Manager Ray Graydon is very strong on discipline and will not tolerate players stepping out of line.

But if that is the only problem Walker gives his boss this season, then Graydon will no doubt take it.

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