Walsall have signed midfielders Jid Okeke and Rico Richards on season-long loans from Stockport County and Port Vale respectively.
What do the signings mean for Walsall?
The additions of Okeke and Richards are expected to bolster Walsall's midfield, with head coach Mat Sadler praising their qualities. Okeke, 20, has made three appearances for Stockport County in the Carabao Cup, and had loan spells with National League North sides Chester, Hereford, and South Shields.
How do the new signings fit into the team?
Richards, 21, came through both Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion's academy sides, before playing 32 times in all competitions during a loan spell at Vale Park last season. He signed permanently for the Valiants in June. Sadler told the club website: "Rico is very athletic, has good quality in the penalty area and he likes to create with his ability to dribble and drive past a player."
What's the current context for Walsall?
As of the end of the 2025-2026 season, Walsall stood 13th in League Two, with 65 points from 46 games, and a recent form of LLWLL. Their last result was a 3-1 loss to Bromley on 2026-05-02. | Category | Stat | | League Standing | 13th | | Points | 65 | | Recent Form | LLWLL | | Goals Scored | 56 | | Goals Conceded | 56 |
The signings of Okeke and Richards are a positive step for Walsall, as they look to improve on their current standing and make a push for the top of the league.
