Walsall swoop for midfielder on eve of League Two season

The 22-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Saddlers, who hope to have him available for Saturday’s home opener with Swindon.

Warrington, a product of Everton’s academy, has made exactly 100 senior career appearances, playing in all of English football’s top four divisions.

He joined Orient last summer on a permanent deal and spent the second half of the season on loan in League Two with Salford City.

Saddlers boss Mat Sadler explained how the club had worked hard to secure a permanent deal, after initially being offered Warrington on loan last month.

He said: “We wanted it to be permanent, we could have signed him on loan a few weeks back but we were trying as hard as we could to make it permanent. 

“I’m delighted for Lewis to come in, he adds real quality to the squad in that midfield area and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

Warrington, who made one Premier League appearance for the Toffees, has also been on loan at Tranmere, Fleetwood and Plymouth.

“I’m absolutely over the moon,” he said, after signing for the Saddlers.

“It’s been in the works for a few weeks now and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running. 

“I’ve played a fair few games in this division and divisions higher as well so I’m quite experienced for a 22-year-old lad. 

“I feel like I can help the team and go one better than last year. That’s the main aim and I’m excited.”