Comment: Next season 'instrumental' for Ronan Maher's Walsall future
It just feels different when it is 'one of your own' and Walsall fans will be hoping that Ronan Maher turns from prospect to star next season.
At the very least, Maher will be eager to stake a claim, even if that is as a squad player. His versatility across the pitch will certainly leave him in good stead to do so, as will his experiences on loan.
Maher shone at Rushall Olympic in the National League North in 2023-24, and replicated that individual success during his temporary stints at Tamworth last term.
His form with the latter even earned him his maiden call-up for the Republic of Ireland under-21s, whereby he made his debut during the international break in March.
Ultimately, Maher has earned his stripes, and in doing so, is good value for the new two-year deal he has just penned at Bescot.
The challenge now is to make full use of his opportunity, and more importantly, receive the game time to be able to do so.
