Sam Mantom: Walsall sign West Bromwich Albion midfielder

Walsall have completed the signing of West Bromwich Albion midfielder Sam Mantom on an 18-month contract.

The 20-year-old had a spell with the Saddlers last season, scoring three times in 13 appearances, and has also spent the last two months on loan at the Bescot Stadium.

"I am really pleased that we were able to complete this deal," said Walsall manager Dean Smith.

"Sam is a great acquisition. He's a young player who understands the game."

Mantom has scored once in his current 11-match stay, in the 2-1 reverse at Orient over Christmas - one of only three defeats suffered by Walsall since his return.

"We know all about him and what he will bring to us," said Smith. "He has hunger and a great attitude to progress.

"He's a good passer of the ball who knows our style of play and fits into what we are trying to achieve here extremely well."