George Dobson delighted to be back with Walsall

The midfielder put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year deal at the Banks’s Stadium yesterday after having his contract at the Eredivisie side terminated by mutual consent.

Dobson, who was a West Ham player at the time, spent the 2016/17 season on loan with the Saddlers and impressed in 26 appearances for the club.

That led to Walsall moving to sign him on a permanent deal in the summer, but the youngster instead opted to continue his football education in Holland.

And while he enjoyed the experience playing under former Netherlands boss Dick Advocaat, he is now delighted to be back in the West Midlands.

“It was a completely different experience playing in Holland,” Dobson said.

“The playing style was different and it was tough living away from home. It was a completely different lifestyle. When I was playing it was really good, but when I was out of the team I found it quite tough.

“It was an experience that I’m really glad I had. I got to experience playing in a top foreign league and against some top teams in Holland.

“It’s something I definitely don’t regret, but once I got the opportunity to come back to Walsall I jumped at it.”

Dobson said getting to work with boss Jon Whitney again was one of the key reasons he designed to re-sign.

“The gaffer was a massive part in me coming back,” he continued.

“I played under him all year last year and I felt I improved so much. Part of that was down to him for giving me confidence and letting me know what I’ve got to do.”

Dobson will now battle for a midfield slot alongside Adam Chambers, Joe Edwards, Florent Cuvelier and Reece Flanagan.

“Wherever you go you’re going to have competition,” he added. “You need to make sure you give everything you can to impress the manager. To get into the team is obviously my aim.

“I’m really, really looking forward to it.”