Walsall not planning to sign defender Greg Halford

The 35-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving Aberdeen last summer, began training with the Saddlers just before the coronavirus lockdown kicked in.

He publicly stated his desire to earn a contract at the Banks's Stadium and returned to training with the club last month.

Now, when asked if the former Wolves defender will be signing permanently with the club, Clarke said: "No. "Greg came in and has been great around the place.

"He trialled last year and did a bit of training – I was happy for him to do a bit of training because of the experience he has.

"But Greg won't be joining us permanently."

Halford, who can play at right-back or centre-back, played 90 minutes for Walsall in the 3-0 friendly loss to Birmingham City on Tuesday.

He played centre-back in both a 5-3-2 formation and 4-2-3-1 formation and impressed fans with his composure – leading many calling for his signature.

Since then, Walsall have signed right-back Hayden White and added much-needed reinforcements to their back-line.

Although Clarke does not plan to sign Halford – revealing he has struggled with injuries while on trial – he has said the defender could return in some capacity in the future.

"He played very well in Birmingham game to be honest with you," Clarke added.

"He's had one or two injury problems throughout the course of his period with us, so I just thought we had plenty of cover in that area and where I would see him play.

"The door is open further down the line because he is a good lad and an experienced lad – to do a bit of training maybe further down the line when he gets himself fixed up."