Walsall sign goalkeeper Jonny Brain

Walsall have signed Macclesfield goalkeeper Jonny Brain on a one-year contract.

The Saddlers have swooped for the 27-year-old after he rejected a new contract at Moss Rose.

Brain, who has the option of a second year at the Banks's Stadium, arrives on the eve of pre-season with the players set to return to training tomorrow.

And the former Newcastle and Port Vale man is excited at the prospect of League One football.

He said: "Walsall is ideal for me, they have a nice set-up with the new training ground. The manager and coaching staff are very experienced, will develop me and it's a step up the league.

"I will look forward to playing against the bigger sides like Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and Charlton."

But Brain took a swipe at his former club and felt undervalued by the League Two outfit, despite being voted Players' Player of the Season last term.

He said: "The offer from Macclesfield was a bit of an insult to be honest and I knew I could play at a higher level.

"Also, I didn't always want to be trying to avoid relegation every season."

Boss Chris Hutchings added: "We're pleased to have him on board. He has done well over the last few years and has decent experience."

Brain's switch plunges Rene Gilmartin's future into further doubt, with the Irishman yet to sign his new deal.

The Saddlers offered the 23-year-old a contract in May but Gilmartin, who replaced Clayton Ince as number one last season, has stalled.