"Starting with the hosts, after only just clinging to their League One status last season, Northampton were desperate for smoother sailing this time around. However, once again showing a string of concerning issues and coming under even more scrutiny, Kevin Nolan's men are at the heart of another third-tier relegation scrap. Currently holding just a two-point buffer from slipping into the relegation zone, the former West Ham coach also has some mounting pressure on his shoulders at Sixfields."
"As for the visitors, watching their FA Cup adventure come to a routine end over the weekend as they slumped to a 5-1 drumming away at Championship outfit Norwich, Walsall have the feel of a squad seeking a much-welcomed boost here. Despite opening Wednesday's trip to Sixfields sat in bronze medal position and with their sights set on securing a League One return in 2026, Mat Sadler's men have shown some real cause for concern on either side of opening the New Year."
Northampton sit narrowly above the League One relegation zone and have won once in seven matches. The team has played consecutive 0-0 draws against Bolton and Stockport, failed to score in three straight matches, and lost 2-0 to Huddersfield. Kevin Nolan faces mounting pressure as the side shows troubling attacking form. Walsall suffered a 5-1 FA Cup defeat at Norwich and lost 2-0 to Cambridge. Their lone League Two win since November was 1-0 against Crewe, and they have one victory in six appearances. Both squads enter the EFL Trophy clash seeking confidence and struggling in the final third.
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