Clayton McDonald has made eight loan appearances for the Saddlers this term

Walsall have signed defender Clayton McDonald on an 18-month deal following his release by Manchester City.

The 21-year-old, six-foot seven son of former Walsall striker Rod McDonald has spent three months on loan at the Banks's Stadium this season.

The last of his loan deals from City expired earlier this month.

But McDonald's move has now been sanctioned in time for him to be considered for Saturday's League One home game against Charlton Athletic.

"We are delighted to have secured Clayton's services," said Walsall boss Chris Hutchings. "He has settled into the club extremely well during his loans.

"He has been given an excellent grounding in the game at Manchester City and we will reap the benefits as he continues his development here at Walsall."

Centre-half McDonald had been reserve team captain at City. But he has found his progress towards the first team barred by the big money signings arriving at Eastlands over the last couple of seasons.

McDonald has so far made eight starts for the Sadders - and has only twice been on the losing side.

But, although a key part of Hutchings' squad, he has not featured on the park since the defeat at MK Dons on 10 October.

Meanwhile, the Walsall-Norwich game, controversially postponed at short notice at Bescot on Monday, has now been rearranged for Tuesday 12 January (1945 GMT).

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