Walsall player exodus: Anthony Forde signs for Rotherham United

Anthony Forde has become the latest player to leave Walsall after agreeing a three-year deal to join Championship outfit Rotherham.

The 22-year-old had been given the chance to remain at the Banks's Stadium with a two-year contract extension offered last month.

Forde had been negotiating with Walsall over the past few weeks with the club improving the terms on the table as talks continued.

But the Irishman has opted to move into the Championship and becomes Alan Stubbs first signing as Millers boss.

Forde joins Romaine Sawyers, Jason Demetriou, Paul Downing and Milan Lalkovic in rejecting contracts offered by the Walsall hierarchy at the end of the last season.

Sam Mantom, Jordan Cook and Andy Taylor are also expected to turn down deals in favour of moves elsewhere.

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But boss Jon Whitney has been quick to replace some of his departing stars and has already bolstered his ranks by bringing in Erhun Oztumer, Florent Cuvelier, Joe Edwards, Jason McCarthy and George Dobson.

A statement released by Walsall said: "Walsall FC can today confirm that a compensation fee has been agreed with Rotherham United for the transfer of winger Anthony Forde.

"The 22-year-old Irishman joined the Saddlers from Wolves in August 2014 and featured 51 times in all competitions last season, scoring five goals.

"He was offered a new two-year deal at the end of the campaign, and during contract negotiations, the terms were improved significantly.

"However, the player expressed a desire to play Championship football and has decided to leave the club.

"We wish Anthony all the best for the future and thank him for his efforts during his time at the Banks's Stadium."

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