Walsall Football Club are delighted to confirm the return of exciting winger Zeli Ismail on a one-year deal, with a one-year option.
The 24-year-old enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell with the Saddlers last season, scoring three goals in 20 appearances and producing a series of dynamic displays.
“I’m buzzing to be back,” said the former Bury man.
“I felt like I did well when I was here on loan.
“I had a great connection with the fans and they were really positive towards me. Every time I got on the ball, they gave me a boost.
“I know the boys – they’re brilliant – and I’m looking to meeting the new boys too.
“I can’t wait to get started.”
Born in Albania, the former England youth international came through Wolves’ youth ranks and made his senior debut in a League Cup tie at Chelsea in September 2012.
He played 12 first-team matches at Molineux and enjoyed loan spells at MK Dons, Notts County, Oxford, Cambridge and Burton, where he reached the 2014 League Two play-off final.
Signed by Bury in June 2016, the dangerous attacker was loaned to Walsall last summer and became a fans’ favourite during his time at the Banks’s.
He returned to his parent club in January for the remainder of the 2017/18 season and amassed 41 appearances for the Shakers in total.
Ismail has been handed the number ten shirt for the 2018/19 campaign.