David Bevan's warning to Jonny Brain

New signing David Bevan has fired a warning to goalkeeping rival Jonny Brain and insisted he hasn't joined Walsall to make up the numbers.

The 21-year-old laid down a statement of intent just 24 hours after signing for the Saddlers following his release from Villa.

Bevan is now set to challenge fellow new-boy Brain, who joined from Macclesfield, for the first-choice berth.

He said: "I want to start pushing for a first-team place straight away.

"I am a confident lad and a decent shot-stopper, so there will be excellent competition between Jonny and myself to be first choice.

"I have some big targets and want to get good experience, while continuing to learn and develop my game."

After finding his opportunities limited at Villa Park, Bevan has taken the step down to League One but has been impressed with the Saddlers' set-up.

He said: "Having already trained with the club for over a week, I am looking forward to working under the management. I am excited by this challenge.

"It's going to be a good experience for me at a nice club."

Another new signing in Oliver Lancashire, who joined yesterday with Aaron Lescott, has also targeted a first team spot.

The defender had been training with the Saddlers after his release from Southampton and wants to challenge Manny Smith and Clayton McDonald.

He said: "I'm really pleased to be here. This is a good club with a nice set-up. My aim is to break into the team and show people what I am capable of.

"I'd like to think that I am a composed defender who likes to play football the right way.

"I am in no doubt this is the place where I can really develop my game."