Express & Star

Dylan Parker signs first professional deal at Walsall

Promising striker Dylan Parker has signed his first professional contract with Walsall.

Published

The forward, who was snapped up from FC Stratford in October, was the only player in Walsall's under-18s to be offered a pro deal by boss Dean Keates this summer.

Parker netted 11 goals in 20 appearances for the under-18s.

He also scored once in two outings for the Saddlers development squad.

"I’m really glad to finally be a professional," the 18-year-old said.

“It’s such a relief to be at the club and playing with some great players.

"I joined in October so I only had six months at under-18s. It was a massive step up coming into a professional academy.

“It’s another step up now and the intensity has gone up a lot, but I feel I’m doing alright with it."