Defender joins on loan from Everton...
Walsall Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of Everton defender Matthew Pennington on loan until the end of the season.Born in Warrington, the 21-year-old has been on the Toffees’ books since the age of 11 and is capable of playing at centre-half or right-back.
The former England U19 international played on loan at Tranmere Rovers during the 2013/14 campaign, scoring two goals in 17 outings.
Last season, he enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Coventry City, where he made 25 appearances and won their Young Player of the Year award.
Pennington signed a new three-year contract at Goodison Park last summer and has played twice for Everton in the cup competitions this term.
He will wear Walsall’s number five shirt.
The loan is subject to Premier League and Football League clearance ahead of the loan transfer window closing at 5pm today.
Head coach Jon Whitney said: “I know a lot about him and I remember watching him when he played against us for Tranmere.
“He’s always someone who Everton have thought highly of. It’ll be his third loan and we’ve done a lot of profiling on him.
“I’ve got friends at Everton who know him and he comes really highly recommended. We’ve fought off quite a few clubs to get him which is great for us.
“The position we’re in has enabled us to get a player of his calibre. He’ll bolster our defence and gives us a bit more reassurance going into this nine-game run.”