Former St Kevin's defender David Okagbue joins Walsall on loan

Walsall has secured the services of defender David Okagbue in a season-long loan move from Championship outfit Stoke City.

The 19-year-old is not a newcomer to the loan system, having previously had spells with Chester and Oldham Athletic.

Okagbue, originally from Dublin, journeyed to Stoke City in 2020 from St. Kevin's Boys.

He was named as part of Stoke's first team squad in the pre-season and made appearances on the Championship bench.

His experience with Chester in the 2021/22 season was followed by a stint at Oldham Athletic in the National League.

Okagbue played 10 times for the Latics, marking a memorable moment with his debut senior goal in a match against Scunthorpe United in October.

On the international front, Okagbue has made his mark with the Republic of Ireland Under 19s, earning five caps and playing in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Qualifiers last September.

Discussing his move to the Saddlers, Okagbue conveyed his aspirations: “It’s a great move for me. I am looking forward to getting men’s football under my belt again, this time in the Football League. I am a strong, aggressive and commanding centre back and I want to play as many games as I can, help the team win games and finish as high as possible.”

This acquisition makes Okagbue the 11th player to join Walsall during this summer's transfer window.