New recruit Mark Gillespie, who joined the club on a two-year deal following the expiration of his contract with Carlisle United, has spoken to club journalists and revealed that he spoke to several other clubs and coaches but couldn't turn down the Saddlers after talking to Neil Cutler and Jon Whitney.
Mark, who was speaking via Saddlers.co.uk, spent nine years at Brunton Park and felt it was time for change, he said; "I spoke to a few different clubs and goalkeeping coaches and Carlisle as well.
"I just think I needed a fresh challenge because I had been there a long time. I wanted a move to test myself and playing in League One was a major factor. Then it was about the environment Walsall work in. I spoke to Neil Cutler in detail about the way he goes about his work. That appealed to me.
"The fact that he was ready for me to come in and be an important part of the side. To play games and to impact the team and hopefully have a good season. The manager as well sold the club to me.
“The people I spoke to, lads that have played for the club, all spoke highly of Walsall and that it is an enjoyable place to work. These are all things that helped me make the move. It was early doors – perhaps halfway through the summer - that I had my heart set on joining."