Leahy: Jon Whitney key to Walsall move

The 24-year-old put pen to paper on a two-year contract at the Banks’s Stadium last month after rejecting an improved offer to stay with former club Falkirk.

As well as the opportunity to stay with The Bairns, Leahy is believed to have had options to move to other clubs in England with a League One rival also keen.

But the left-back was set on a move to Scotland after Whitney travelled to Scotland to meet him.

“I met with the manager straight after my last game of the season,” the Coventry born star said.

“The fact he came up to watch my games and make an effort meant a lot to me.

“The stuff he was saying and what he wants the club to achieve, and how he sees me fitting into the team, it just fitted in perfectly with what I wanted myself.

“And now I’m here I’m loving it. It’s been testing but I’ve got through everything and I feel I’ve settled in well.”

As well as Leahy, Walsall have also signed Nicky Devlin from Scotland this summer.

The duo look set to the Saddlers full-backs for the 2017/18 campaign with Devlin playing on the right side of defence.

And Leahy is confident they will quickly adapt to the demands of English football.

“I knew Nicky before I arrived,” he continued.

“I played against him quite a few times last season and got the better of him quite a lot!

“I’m expecting the English game to be difficult.

“But I was ready for a new challenge and that’s why I’ve come down here to League One.

“If I apply myself properly, the way I have done so far, I don’t see why I can’t hit the ground running when it comes to the Bury game.”

Leahy also vowed to give his all while wearing the Walsall shirt.

“I will give 100 per cent,” he added.

“When you put that much effort and commitment in, you’re halfway there.

“The talent will come through with the hard work.”