Saddlers seal McGivern loan swoop

Walsall have seen off competition from Crystal Palace and Oldham for the season-long loan capture of Manchester City's Northern Ireland international Ryan McGivern.

The 20-year-old left-back, who can also play in central defence and midfield, helped City lift the FA Youth Cup in 2008.

McGivern, who was set for his Walsall debut in today's friendly at Port Vale (3pm), becomes the third young City starlet to join the Saddlers in recent months after centre-back Clayton McDonald and midfielder Paul Marshall, who are permanent signings.

Having struggled to make the breakthrough at Eastlands, the 6ft 2in utility man was loaned to Morecambe in 2008-09 and spent part of last season at Leicester, making five and 14 appearances respectively.

McGivern also burst onto the international scene with Northern Ireland last season, winning four of his five full caps. And Walsall boss Chris Hutchings is delighted to have recruited the versatile player.

"We're delighted to have Ryan on board," said Hutchings.

"He's another young lad who we've been monitoring for some time and will be a welcome addition to our squad.

"We know what he's capable of and he's keen to gain experience. He certainly has pedigree and we're grateful for Manchester City allowing him to come and continue his footballing education."

McGivern said: "I'm very pleased to be here. I just want to get regular games under my belt and I can't wait to get started.

"My favoured position is left-back but I can also play in the centre of defence. I like to get up and down the pitch as much as possible and provide chances for our strikers as well as keeping the opposition out.

"It's all about playing as many games as possible and helping the club push for promotion."