Mullen's side are now nine points off the play-off places in League One

Walsall manager Jimmy Mullen is ready to take criticism from supporters if it means they leave the players alone.

Mullen was subjected to verbal abuse from Saddlers fans following the 2-1 defeat to Millwall on Saturday.

He told BBC WM: "I've taken some flak from people walking past the dug-out, hurling abuse at me.

"I'll take that as long as the players don't have it, but we're not far away from being a mid-table, or mid-table to play-off position team," he added.

Walsall are 11th in League One - nine points away from the play-offs and eight points above the relegation zone.

They have won five and lost five of their home matches in the league, as well as losing to both Luton Town in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup at the Banks's Stadium.

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