Walsall sign defender Dean Holden

Walsall today swooped for former Shrewsbury defender Dean Holden as boss Dean Smith plugged the Saddlers' defensive gap.

The 32-year-old, released by Rochdale in the summer, has penned a one-year deal at the Banks's Stadium.

He is the Saddlers' second signing today after they re-signed Stoke midfielder Florent Cuvelier on a six-month loan deal.

And Smith was also delighted with the signing of Holden, who can play at centre-back and right-back, after the exits of Manny Smith, Lee Beevers and Mat Sadler.

"He's an experienced lad who knows the game," said Smith. "He's what I would describe as a robust performer who knows how to defend and will bring plenty of knowledge and commitment to the squad.

"I see him as a central defender, but he has played a lot of his football at right-back, so he also gives us options.

"He's a welcome addition to the squad; he's a great character and professional who will work hard and give his all to the cause.

"We've done our homework on him and everyone says the same.

"We welcome him to the club and I look forward to working with him."

Holden started his career at Bolton before spells at Oldham, Peterborough and Falkirk and he moved to Shrewsbury in 2009.

He made 52 appearances for the Shrews until leaving for