Douglas James-Taylor rejoins Walsall FC with a one-year deal

Walsall announced the signing of Douglas James-Taylor on a one-year contract that includes the option to extend for a further year.

He will officially join the club on July 1, following the expiration of his current contract with Stoke City from the Championship.

James-Taylor returns to Walsall after a successful loan period in the 2022-23 season.

The 21-year-old striker made 30 appearances and scored two goals during his first year in the EFL, including a significant stoppage-time winner against Carlisle United in the Emirates FA Cup.

Prior to joining the Saddlers, James-Taylor had stints at Wealdstone and AFC Fylde.

The young forward refers to his previous season as a learning curve and is now eager to leverage his experience to advance his career.

“It feels good to sign permanently,” said James-Taylor. He mentioned his appreciation for the support from Head Coach Mat Sadler, who expressed clear intentions of wanting him back in the team.

James-Taylor added, "Last season, there were a lot of new experiences for me so having those under my belt, going through tough times with the squad, tough times as an individual player and getting through them, hopefully this season they will be like water off a duck’s back and as a squad, we can really kick on this season."

In terms of personal ambitions, James-Taylor aims to be more solidified in the team, which he acknowledges will only come from improved performance and more goals. "As a group, there’s a real understanding that last year wasn’t where we need to be and promotion is what we want.”

Head Coach Sadler expressed his pleasure over James-Taylor's return. He believes the player showed extreme potential last season, with brilliant moments that made him eager to work with him again.

"Douglas is a player that I believe has got a really bright future," Sadler said. "He is someone who I have worked hard on over the last few weeks to make sure that we got it done so I am delighted now that it is."