Trialists Update

Always that point of the year where clubs try to keep A.Trialist unknown to the world but following the release of the Walsall training photos and a few tweets from Walsall players it would indicate that four trialists currently under the watchful eye of Dean Smith are –

Goalkeeper – Richard O’Donnell

Former Sheffield Wednesday and Chesterfield ‘keeper, O’Donnell has spent the majority of his career on loan at many clubs including Oldham, Rotherham, York and Stockport.

His contract expired at Chesterfield last month and is thought to be one of a few keepers that Dean Smith is currently trailing.

Midfielder – James McQuilkin

James is no stranger to assistant boss Richard O’Kelly following his stint at Hereford.

James, 24 – is a local lad brought through the ranks at West Bromwich Albion

The former Northern Ireland U21 star was a key member of the Hereford side and scored 11 goals in 76 games for the Bulls.

He has recently been on loan at Kidderminster, where he scored 1 goal in 3 appearances.

Striker – Omari Sterling James

Sterling James has been on trial with Walsall since the early part of last season and has already scored a couple of goals for the reserves.

Omari came through the ranks at Birmingham City before joining Alvechurch.

During his time with Alvechurch, Omari scored 13 goals and his blistering pace and trickery has caught the eye of Dean Smith.

Many sources suggest Sterling James has already signed a contract with the Saddlers but nothing has been confirmed by the club.


Striker- Joel Purkiss

Joel is brother of Walsall full back Ben Purkiss.

Joel is no stranger to Dean Smith following his trial with Walsall two years ago. He has recently played for Sheffield FC, scoring 5 goals in 3 appearances. He played a few games for the reserves but nothing ever was finalised.

Possibly Joel is just joining us to get back to match fitness but he is definitely training with the Saddlers.