Walsall get Ricketts

Having spent three months on loan at the Saddlers last season, Ricketts is delighted to bring his football journey back to its starting point, having rejoined the club on a permanent basis.

“It`s good to be back,” said Ricketts. “I had a bit of success here last season and I will be looking to build upon that. This club is really moving forward and I am delighted to be part of it. The new training ground is a top-class facility and a good place to work.

“On top of that, we have some extremely talented young players; the likes of Troy Deeney, Alex Nicholls and Ishmel Demontagnac have come on so well since I was last here and they will provide a bright future for this club. We know that League One will be very competitive, but everyone starts on an even keel.”

Every fan knows his history fans at Southend might be sceptical and those at Oldham may wonder what the fuss is about, but in truth the 29 year old former England international (I know it was only one cap…but it still a cap)played well for us last season and played a major part in us moving from bottom of the table into the play off places, we hope he can do the same this time around.

As for fitness although his clearence didn’t come through in time for him to play at Burton Albion saturday, he was there warming up and looked fitter and slimmer than anytime last season, that would seem a good omen…..fingers crossed only time will tell.