Express & Star

Walsall blow after key man joins rivals following contract rejection

Walsall have been dealt a blow after Ryan Stirk turned down a new contract offer to sign for their League Two rivals Chesterfield.

Published
Last updated

The midfielder, who made 97 appearances during his two-year stint at Bescot Stadium - played in both of the Saddlers play-off matches against the Spireites. 

Mat Sadler’s team won the first leg at the SMH Group Stadium 2-0 before giving their fans a night to remember in the return leg at Bescot, winning 2-1. 

Stirk arrived in the summer of 2023 after leaving Bromley and was virtually an ever-present Sadler’s team last season making 54 appearances across all competitions.

A Walsall statement said: "Ryan Stirk has rejected our offer of a new contract to take up an opportunity elsewhere.

"Ryan played 97 times during his two years with the Saddlers and we would like to thank him for his efforts and wish him well for the future."