Walsall's Nicky Devlin can't wait to get started

The former Ayr United captain put pen to paper on two-year deal at the Banks's Stadium last month after rejecting the advances of a host of clubs in Scotland.

Devlin joined up with his new team mates for pre-season training last week.

And boss Jon Whitney wasted no time putting him though his paces with the full-back part of group that spent time running up hills at Cannock Chase.

But despite being worked hard, Devlin is already enjoying life as a Saddler.

"It’s been brilliant," he said. "All the boys have been brand new with me and made me feel really welcome.

"There are a couple that I knew before coming which has helped as well. I played against Luke (Leahy) last year.

"That has helped me settle as well but it’s a really welcoming bunch.

"It’s been good fun but it's been tough. We have done a bit of ball work but it’s always been with running in between.

"This week we will start to get in more football related drills which I’m looking forward too.

"But I just want the game to come.

"We play Solihull Moors in a little under two weeks so I’m counting down the days. I just want to get started and show the fans what I'm about."

Walsall have enjoyed success signing players from Scotland recently with Eoghan O'Connell impressing after joining on loan from Celtic last season.

And Devlin is confident he can make a similar impact.

"Eoghan O’Connell came down and did really well and I know Eoghan's brother – Andy – he played with me at Ayr last year," the 23-year-old continued.

"It terms of a comparison with Scotland I’m not quite sure what it’s like here because I’ve never played in England.

"But I am confident I will be able to make the step up and I’m sure the lads will help me with that as well.

"I'm a player that likes to get forward. I'm a defender first and foremost but I think attacking is one of my biggest strengths.

"In Scotland I’m a fairly quick player so hopefully that will still be the case down here."