Walsall's Liam Roberts joins Southport on loan

The 20-year-old had recently returned to the Saddlers from a temporary stay at Rainworth Miners Welfare in the Evo-Stik One South division but will promptly step up three levels with the Sandgrounders.

"This is a step up for Liam," said manager, Dean Smith. "We've had some positive reports from his time at Rainworth and hopefully he can do well at Southport.

"It's an opportunity for him to play regular games at a good level and also link up with Amadou Bakayoko who is doing well there.

"We'll be monitoring their progress closely and hopefully everyone will benefit from this arrangement."

Roberts is currently behind Richard O'Donnell and Craig MacGillivray in the pecking order at the Banks's Stadium.