Freddie Draper: Lincoln City recall striker from loan at Walsall

Freddie Draper scored 18 goals in 2023 across his loan spells with Drogheda and Walsall

Walsall's top scorer Freddie Draper has been recalled from his loan by parent club Lincoln City.

The 19-year-old scored 10 goals in 21 League Two appearances for the Saddlers.

Draper, who spent last season on loan with League of Ireland side Drogheda, has had what was meant to be a season-long stay at Walsall ended early.

"With our change of head coach, it was a no-brainer to recall him," said Imps director of football Jez George.

"Freddie joined Walsall as an 18 year-old, so to establish himself as their number nine and score 10 goals in half a season in just one league lower is a fantastic achievement and tells you everything about Freddie's mentality and ability."

Draper's return comes on the same day that winger Olamide Shodipo, 26, was released at the end of his short-term contract and and 22-year-old striker Jack Vale had his loan from Blackburn cut short.

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