Walsall have announced the arrival of Celtic defender Eoghan O'Connell, who will remain with the League One club for the remainder of the season on loan, with the English club's manager challenging the Bhoy to prove he deserves to play.
O'Connell has been signed by Saddlers boss Jon Whitney from Scottish Premiership outfit Celtic and the manager has admitted he was eager to bring the defender into the Bescot Stadium.
Whitney’s men have won just one of their last five games and the manager was keen to provide solidity to his side’s defence. However, the Walsall boss has challenged the Celtic man to take the opportunity to prove his worth.
Following signing O'Connell on loan for the rest of the season, the Saddlers boss said his side needed to strengthen their defence and he believes the new signing will provide stability at the back.
"It’s an area we felt needed strengthening because it’s clear that we’re short of bodies at the back”, Whitney told the club website.
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“The lads have done well back there but we felt we needed to get another one in going into the second half of the season.
"Its up to him now to show us what he’s about and force his way into the team", added the 46-year-old.
O'Connell made seven appearances for the Hoops this season in all competitions and will now look to kick on in League One.
He will be eyeing getting regular games at Walsall in order to gain first team experience and improve his game, ahead of a return to Parkhead.
The Saddlers are currently placed 14th in the League One table.
