Macken's solitary cap for the Republic of Ireland came in 2004

Walsall have signed former Preston and Manchester City striker Jon Macken on a one-year deal with the option for a further 12 months.

The 32-year-old Republic of Ireland cap was training with the Saddlers after being released by Barnsley in June.

Boss Chris Hutchings told the club website: "He is a goal-scorer. He has scored goals wherever he has been and has played at the highest level.

"I expect him to be a real force in League One."

After failing to break into the first team at Manchester United, Macken made his name at Preston, scoring 74 goals in 229 appearances during a five-year spell.

606: DEBATE Have your say on the signing of Macken

His performances earned him a £5m move to Manchester City, whom he helped to the First Division title in 2002.

Macken spent three years at City before moving to Crystal Palace and then Barnsley in November 2007, initially on loan.

He played 105 league games for the Tykes, scoring 21 goals in the Championship, before being deemed surplus to requirements by manager Mark Robins.

Macken could make his Walsall debut against Plymouth on Saturday.

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