Walsall sign Bedford Town midfielder Jago Godden - and loan him to Drogheda United

Godden has joined the Saddlers on an 18-month contract with the option of a further year. 

He will sign for fellow Trivela-owned Drogheda on loan until January next year, although Walsall hold the option to recall him.

The 22-year-old, who moved to England from his native New Zealand in November, has scored four goals in 11 appearances for Bedford in the National League North this term. 

Prior to joining Bedford, Godden scored 14 goals in 68 appearances for Christchurch United and has also had academy trials at the likes of Wolves, Coventry City, Bolton Wanderers and The New Saints. 

"It's an unbelievable feeling. It's been a long time coming and I'm so grateful that after hitting the ground running in the UK, I'm finally here," Godden said. 

"Wandering around the stadium has made everything feel real. I showed my mum around on a FaceTime call, which was special and something that will live with me forever. 

"I'm just very happy to be here and ready to work. I'm someone who likes to get forward and contribute with goals and assists, but I'd describe myself as a versatile and dynamic midfielder. 

"I like to help out and defend too, and when I step out to wear the shirt, you know you'll always get 100 per cent effort from me." 

Walsall have collaborated in the past with Drogheda. Evan Weir signed from the Drogs in December 2023, before immediately re-joining them on loan. 

Weir has gone on to make 51 appearances for Walsall in all competitions, scoring four goals and setting up eight more. 

Elicha Ahui also signed for Walsall on an 18-month deal (with an option year) from Drogheda in January 2025, but has been out with an ACL injury since May. 

Meanwhile, the now departed Douglas James-Taylor scored 15 goals in 35 games for Drogheda during his loan from Bescot in 2024-25.

"I'm looking forward to my loan spell at Drogheda United. It's a league I've followed closely and played with players who have played there before. 

"You can see the quality it possesses and it'll be an incredible experience for me. It'll be beneficial in getting another season of senior football under my belt. 

"The League of Ireland is growing so I can't wait to hit the ground running there and show everyone what I'm about."