Walsall want to keep Jake Scrimshaw but Adan George departs
Darrell Clarke says Walsall are hoping to extend Jake Scrimshaw’s loan from Bournemouth beyond next month – while confirming Adan George has returned to Birmingham.
Scrimshaw got his first Football League goals as the Saddlers valiantly came back from behind to beat Port Vale last weekend.
His loan from the Cherries is due to expire in the new year, but Clarke is looking to make room financially to keep him around while fellow forward George has gone back to St Andrew’s.
On Scrimshaw’s loan coming up, Clarke said: “It is, but we’ve got to be very thankful to Bournemouth and Birmingham – Adan George has now gone back – for giving us two players for free.
“What we’ve got to realistically understand is that we’ve made a lot of of redundancies at this football club, so obviously there’s not going to be much money for players.
“Fans have done their bit with the season ticket money, and players and staff have done their bit, so we’ll see what we can actually do in January.
“But, certainly, I won’t imagine there’ll be much movement. I’ve got one or two favours I can call in, hopefully.
“We’d like to keep Jake, certainly, as he’s done well in the squad and settled in well.
“But we’ll have to wait and see how that develops.”
Scrimshaw was beaming on the back of his double against Vale, insisting it was a ‘dream come true’.
The 20-year-old, who has previously played for Eastleigh and Poole Town in non-league, has impressed Clarke with his attitude and application.
“You always remember your first league goals, and his work-rate and endeavour were absolutely outstanding,” said Clarke.
“If he continues to work as hard as he does in every game, I’m sure he’ll improve and have a decent career.”
Teenager George, meanwhile, is now back with the Blues. The 18-year-old did not make an appearance for Walsall, only being on the bench twice, but Clarke added: “The lad did really well. I just thought it wasn’t the right time.
“Scrimmy came in and had played non-league games. He had that experience while Adan was a bit younger and more raw.
“But he trained really well and the kid has got a good talent.
“He’s got a good talent and will make a decent career in the game.
“He trained very hard, but I just didn’t think it was the right time for him to get the minutes.”
