Walsall get goalkeeper Neil Etheridge

The 25-year-old, who has made 44 international appearances for the Philippines, has signed a two-year deal at the Banks's Stadium.

Etheridge, who came through the youth ranks at Chelsea before moving to Fulham, becomes the club's second signing this week, following the arrival of Cypriot international full-back Jason Demetriou.

A shot-stopper was high up on Smith's summer wish-list, following Player of the Season Richard O'Donnell's decision to join Wigan.

And the Saddlers boss is delighted to add former England Schoolboy to his ranks, saying: "We had a number of good options, but Neil really stood out.

"He ticks all the right boxes in terms of age, room for further development and experience at this level and above.

"He is an extremely driven young man who wants to be successful and these are the characteristics that we are looking for.

"Neil will compete with Craig MacGillivray for a first-team place and they will both push each other on, which is exactly the kind of competition that we want."

It is believed Etheridge turned down offers from club's in higher divisions in order to establish himself as the new Saddlers No 1.

And the gloveman, who has only made 20 first-team appearances throughout his career, is now looking to knuckle down and win a permanent place in Smith's side.

He said: "It's fantastic to be here. The faith that the gaffer and Neil Cutler have shown in me means a lot. Now is the time to get my head down and work hard.

"I have gained plenty of international experience in front of big crowds, but I've not played as many league games as I would have liked and I intend to rectify that here.

"Everyone has made me feel really welcome and there is a great atmosphere around the place. When things click into place so quickly it makes it that much easier to settle and I have found that here.

"This club wants success and I am determined to play my part in it."