Walsall captain hailed by new club

Walsall captain Mark Hughes has been hailed as a "massive coup" for North Queensland Fury - by the Australian club who snatched him from the Saddlers.

Hughes performed a staggering U-turn on Monday to move Down Under despite agreeing a contract at the Banks's Stadium.

The former Saddlers skipper is expected to arrive in Australia tomorrow and Fury's operations manager Robbie Middleby believes the signing is a statement of intent.

He said: "It's a massive coup for us, huge. He's a leader, he's been a captain at Walsall, he's been through the Everton junior ranks and he's a leader, that is really what we were looking for.

"It's a great signing."

Hughes joins the Australian A-League outfit on a two-year deal, after turning his back on similar terms with the Saddlers.

Middleby expects the 23-year-old former Everton trainee to shine in Australia after his experience at the Banks's Stadium last season.

He said: "Technically he's very good, he's good on the ball and, from what I've heard, very big and strong. He's been playing a very good standard in England, very good, and he's got a lot of experience for that young age.

"I think it's great for the team, great for the club and great for everyone."

Walsall had expected Hughes to stay and his exit leaves a massive gap in boss Chris Hutchings' defence.

Manny Smith and Clayton McDonald are the only two recognised central defenders and, while Jamie Vincent can fill in, he is the only left-back on the books.

The Saddlers return for pre-season fitness tests tomorrow and goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin has also yet to commit, after stalling on his new contract.

Julian Gray's future is another in doubt, with the winger still to sign his deal.