Robbie Willmott: Walsall sign experienced Newport County midfielder on loan

Robbie Willmott spent the second half of the 2020-21 season on loan at Exeter City

Walsall have signed Newport County midfielder Robbie Willmott on loan for the rest of the season.

The 32-year-old, who has made 17 appearances this season, is reunited with manager Michael Flynn, who was in charge of Newport until 2021.

Willmott first joined the Welsh club from Cambridge United in 2013 and then returned for a second spell in 2017.

"I've known him a long time. I've played with him and managed him. He's a good character," said Flynn.

"He'll fit in with the group. He's very fit, looks after himself and he will provide us with some good ammunition down the right-hand side."

Willmott was part of the Newport side who reached the League Two play-off final under Flynn in 2019, when they lost 1-0 to Tranmere Rovers.

"Playing under the gaffer and Wayne Hatswell, and I have played with both of them as well, means I know how they operate. I know how they like to play and they know how I operate. It is a good match."

Walsall, who sit ninth in League Two, have now made two signings since the transfer window opened.

Bristol City defender Joe Low was the first to arrive on loan on Wednesday.

The Saddlers are away to another League Two side Stockport County in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

Wilmott's departure from Newport came on the same day that fellow midfielder Matty Dolan re-signed for Hartlepool United.

Coughlan on Willmott and Dolan

Newport boss Graham Coughlan told BBC Wales:

"I woke up on Thursday morning and naturally I didn't want them to leave. To be honest I tried to talk the two of them down.

"Yes one, Robbie, was on the bench and wanted to play first team football. With Matty it was obviously a family reason.

"In an ideal world you'd want them to stay but I fully respect the reasoning of both players. Yes I was sad to see them go but we move on and we thank them for their service.

"They've been brilliant to us even though they weren't playing in the team. They were great lads off the pitch as well, the upmost professional standards.

"It was obviously a sad day for not only myself but the players as well and I'm sure the supporters would be as well."

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