Walsall manager Mat Sadler has confirmed that former Aston Villa, QPR and Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah is on trial with the League Two side.
The 36-year-old is currently a free agent after his release from Championship side Queens Park Rangers and he has been with the Saddlers for “a few days”, according to the Walsall manager.
What has the Walsall manager said?
Speaking to the Express and Star, after he was spotted on trial at today’s win over Alvechurch, Sadler stated:
“Albert’s delivery is probably second to none. I think he’s still possibly got the best delivery in the Championship let alone if he was to play in League Two.
“There is still some work to be done on that one. We’ll see how things pan out. Albert has been with us for a few days, not for long, but he’s a top pro as you are when you play for as long as he has.”
“But I’ve got some options in that area that I’ve probably got to make the best decision for in order to bring another one in there.“
Further experience to come in?
Adomah made a huge impact in football making 774 appearances with 113 goals to his name.
He’s won several honours, such as 2008-09 Young Player of the Year when he played for Barnet, 2010-11 Player of the Year at Bristol City and was part of the 2019 Championship Playoff Final winning squad whilst playing for Aston Villa.
He is a positive presence on the pitch, who offers a direct approach to 1v1 situations, with direct and dangerous energy, aggression and a consistent pressing game.
His experience in addition to this is second to none and his impact as a person off the pitch makes him a significant ambassador for football and football supporters.
Would this be a good move for Walsall?
Adomah could be the latest big name to make the drop-down the footballing pyramid, with other examples including James Norwood at Oldham or David Stockdale at York City last season.
His experience could be beneficial for some of the club’s younger players, such as new signing Connor Barrett from AFC Fylde, teenager Ronan Maher and loanee goalkeeper Tommy Simkin from Stoke City.
The ability for him to adapt as a right wing-back in Sadler’s preferred back three systems, as well as a right winger in a potential alternative back four systems, could be beneficial for all parties.