New Saddlers signing Marshall played 10 times for Aberdeen last season

Walsall have made their first summer signing by bringing in young midfielder Paul Marshall from Manchester City.

Marshall, 20, a regular in City's reserves, has had spells with Blackpool and Port Vale in the Football League, as well as last season with Aberdeen.

Manchester-born Marshall, who has signed a one-year deal, is a graduate of the youth set-up at Eastlands.

The England Under-20 international came through City's ranks alongside Clayton McDonald, signed by Walsall in January.

"Clayton is a good friend and he really sold the club to me," Marshall told the club website.

"I'm delighted to come here and have the opportunity to play at a good level.

"Now the deal is done, I can't wait to get started. Hopefully I will fit the bill.

I'm looking forward to the challenge that League One will present to me Walsall midfielder Paul Marshall

"The training ground is quality. I didn't expect it to be as good as it was and it will certainly be a nice environment to work in.

"The Banks's Stadium is also a nice, compact ground and will be a good place to play my football."

Marshall is also looking forward to seeing who else might join him at the club before the start of the new season.

"I know that the club are looking to bring players in who are comfortable on the ball," he said.

"I have already played at a good standard in the Scottish Premier League and the Championship plus I've been to the World Cup with England Under-20s, so I'm looking forward to the challenge that League One will present."

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