Experienced defender latest to sign up for the season ahead...
THE SADDLERS have agreed terms on a new one-year deal with defender, James O’Connor.
The 30 year-old joined the club from Derby County 12 months ago and appeared 35 times last term, ending the season in impressive form in the heart of the back-line.
“I am happy to get things sorted,” he said. “I was pleased with my form in the second half of last season and now I want to kick-on from there.
“With a good start to the season and some momentum, I can see no reason whatsoever why we can’t be up there challenging during the campaign ahead.
“There are no real stand-out teams and with the quality we have here, we have to aim as high as we can.
“I’m proud of our defensive record last season; on the whole we worked well as a unit, it was just disappointing that we couldn’t challenge for the play-offs.
“For me personally it was a frustrating start, but I’d like to think that I was able to show what I am capable of after Christmas and I thoroughly enjoyed it in the centre back role.
“We’ve got some good young players coming through here. There’s going to be good competition for places and I am pleased to be able to add my experience to the mix.
“Everyone starts equal and with a clean slate, so we’re looking forward to what the season ahead holds in store.”
Birmingham-born O’Connor came through the youth ranks at Aston Villa before serving the likes of Port Vale (on loan), AFC Bournemouth, Doncaster Rovers, Derby County and Bristol City (on loan).
His experience and know-how has been a key ingredient for The Saddlers both on and off-the-field.