Josh Ginnelly Wanted Walsall Return After Brief Chat With 'Honest' Dean Keates

Summer signing Josh Ginnelly, who returned to the club on a permanent basis just a few weeks ago, has spoken to the local press and revealed that it took just one meeting with manager Dean Keates for him to want to return to the club.

The 21-year-old, who enjoyed a fourteen appearance - six-month loan spell under previous manager Jon Whitney during the 2016/17 campaign, admitted that Dean Keates' honesty and desire really sold him on a return to the club.

Speaking via the Express & Star, Josh said; "He is very honest. He doesn’t beat around the bush – he tells you how it is. I had other options. But from the first five minutes I had talking to him, I knew I was going to sign.

"His style of play suits me and I know the group here and that makes things so much easier . I’ve only had to get to know a few of the lads rather than a whole squad. I’ve come in and I feel comfortable and welcome already. Now I can’t wait for the season to start."

Last season the Saddlers spent much of the previous campaign battling to avoid relegation, ultimately  finishing 19th in the table, just two places and two points above the drop zone, but Coventry-born Ginnelly is confident they will avoid a repeat performance this time around, he continued; "I am more than confident in the lads. Everyone is a good player here. And the gaffer came in last season and saved us from relegation which is great for everybody involved in the club.

"This year the boy won’t want to go through that again. It’s a little early for targets but we’re looking forward to getting off to a good start against Plymouth and then building from there.

"Personally I don’t like to have a target and set it in stone – I think it puts unnecessary pressure on you. I just want to play, express myself an show people what I can do."

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By Bescot Banter at 2:02 pm on Thursday, 05 July 2018