O'Donnell puts pen-to-paper...
THE SADDLERS have secured the services of goalkeeper, Richard O’Donnell, following a successful trial spell at the club.The 24 year-old started his career with hometown club, Sheffield Wednesday, where he came through the ranks and broke into the first-team squad whilst still an Academy player.
During his time with The Owls he gained experience from loan spells with the likes of York City, Rotherham United, Oldham Athletic, Grimsby Town and Macclesfield Town, whilst back at Hillsborough, he helped the club gain promotion from League One in 2011/12.
He moved on to Chesterfield in readiness for the 2012/13 campaign, during which he spent time on loan at Stockport County.
He is now looking to establish himself as first-choice here at Banks’s Stadium.
“Richard is a lad who has been with us for the last few weeks,” said manager, Dean Smith. “He has impressed during that time and displayed an excellent attitude.
“I am pleased to have him on board; this is the chance for him to find his way back into regular first-team football.
“He’s had a taste of it before and I know that he has the hunger and desire to establish himself here.
“He knows that I am also looking to bring in another ‘keeper to provide competition for him and Liam Roberts, but he is relishing the challenge.”
O’Donnell added: “It’s been a long summer. I’ve never had to go anywhere on trial before, but the lads have been different class and really helped me settle in here.
“I am delighted to have earned this deal. I like the way that the Gaffer and Richard O’Kelly want us to play and their enthusiasm for the game and willingness to work hard in training transfers itself through to the players.
“I was around the first-team squad from a really early age at Sheffield Wednesday but still class myself as a young goalkeeper who has a lot to offer.
“Working with Neil Cutler will only make me a better goalkeeper. I can feel the benefit of his coaching already and I am looking forward to building on that and making my mark here.”
You can hear more from the new 'keeper later today...