Anton Peterlin to accept Walsall deal

Walsall today completed the eighth signing of this summer of change with midfielder Anton Peterlin accepting a one-year contract from the club.

The 24-year-old American trialist won his battle to convince manager Dean Smith he was worth a spot in a squad being dramatically and rapidly overhauled by the Saddlers boss.

Peterlin figured in last week's demanding friendlies against Wolves and Villa and, allied to his work in training, did enough to persuade Smith to offer the contract.

Although talks were initially focused on a six-month agreement, manager and player met again today and shook hands on a season-long agreement, which will be finalised when the former Everton and Plymouth player completes the formalities of his medical.

Smith said: "Anton has got fitter as time has gone on and I think he can be good for us.

"He finds little pockets in play where he can use the ball – and he uses the ball well. He also covers the ground and has played well with both Richard Taundry and Adam Chambers alongside him.

"He will be a very useful addition."

Walsall's players were given the weekend off after their exertions against Wolves and Villa while Smith went to check on the club's youngsters in their behind-closed-doors friendly against Blue Square Premier outfit Nuneaton, which finished in a 3-0 defeat.