WHAT A SEASON! FROM BARCA TO WALSALL
THE opportunity for regular game time has persuaded Eoghan O’Connell to join Walsall on loan until the end of the season from Celtic.
The 21-year-old had made just seven appearances in this campaign for his parent club, though that does include stepping out at the Nou Camp for a Champions League group game against Barcelona.
But, after failing to cement his spot in Brendan Rogers’ squad, the defender, cousin of former Ireland rugby captain Paul O’Connell, is excited to get going.
“I’m really looking forward to getting started,” he said. “I heard about the interest last week and it took perhaps a little longer to get done than we would have hoped.
“I spoke to the manager and he was really keen for me to come down. As soon as I’d spoken to him, I was really excited to come here and be a part of it.
“Coming through at Celtic, we were always taught to play it out from the back and I like winning games. I don’t like losing.
“I played a few games for Celtic at the start of the year, but I’ve not played as much recently and I wanted to get out and play.”
The Saddlers have also confirmed that left-back Scott Laird will return to the club on loan from Scunthorpe United for the remainder of the season.
The 28-year-old has scored three times in 22 appearances for Walsall this campaign and was excited to be reunited with the Saddlers’ supporters.
“I’m absolutely delighted to get it done,” said the defender.
“I can’t thank the fans enough for how they’ve taken to me.
“I had some big boots to fill with Rico (Henry), but I’d like to think I’ve done enough.
“I’m looking forward to cracking on in the second half of the season.”