Ben Purkiss signs a new one-year deal at Walsall

The Saddlers have lost forward Febian Brandy to Sheffield United and the future of striker Will Grigg is still very much in doubt.

But right-back Purkiss has given them something to cheer about by penning a new one-year deal.

The 29-year-old made 30 appearances following his move from Hereford United last summer, establishing himself as a reliable part of the back four.

And manager Dean Smith is delighted Purkiss, who began his career at Sheffield United, has decided to stay.

Smith said: "Ben did really well for us last season. He's a good character to have around the club and I am looking forward to working with him during the campaign."

Purkiss' signing came as little surprise, as he had already indicated he would stay via a message on social networking site Twitter.

He is the fourth out-of-contract player to agree new terms and, with Dean Holden and James Chambers also on board, the Saddlers have strength in depth defensively.

Purkiss said: "I'm really pleased to have signed a new deal. I enjoy working with Dean Smith and his assistant Richard O'Kelly.

"I have loved my time at the club so far and am looking forward to helping the team make further progress."

Smith has also managed to retain Adam Chambers, who played a key role in midfield during the team's resurgence during the second half of last season.

But things look less healthy up front and the Saddlers are also in need of a goalkeeper, having used loanees exclusively last term following the dropping of David Grof in November.