OK so some people will ask ‘how can you put Junior in a section of Walsall greats after the way he left the club?’ Well I acknowledge his departure did leave a bitter taste but just take a look at his contribution during his only season at the Bescot.
Jose Junior arrived in Walsall from Brazilian side Treze at the beginning of the 2002/03 season after a bit good business by Colin Lee. During the season between them Junior and Jorge Leitao formed a partnership that was envied by most clubs in the league.
As a pair, Leitao and Junior bagged 29 goals in all competitions during the season ensuring another season in Division 1 and the best league finish since the 1950’s.
Although Junior was often accused as being lazy he did show flashes of brilliance and, lets face it, next to Leitao anybody would look lazy!
His final game at Bescot demonstrated his skills perfectly. A couple of brilliant goals against Derby is how I, and many fans, prefer to remember Junior.
At the end of the 2002/03 season however, Junior moved on but only after Colin Lee had fought to get his signature. Of course, football being football, he failed because of the numerous agents Junior had and Lee was left to watch the Striker move to Derby.
After a spell there he moved to Rotherham and then Watford, who incidently sold him due to a problem with legal paperwork and his apparent lack of correct personal permits.
Since then he has moved to Sweden with Malmo and he recently scored the clubs’ 3000 goal.
It may have been brief but if you have a memory og Junior let us know on our forum.
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