The 34 year-old links up with the Saddlers as he steps up his rehabilitation from a neck injury that has sidelined him since the summer. While he continues his rehabilitation, the experienced defender will assist in opposition analysis and provide support for the younger players at the club.
Purkiss started his career at Sheffield United before moving to Gainsborough Trinity in 2003. After four years, he signed for York City before enjoying brief spells at Oxford United and Hereford.
Ben joined the Saddlers in 2012 and made seventy-three appearances in three seasons before joining Port Vale in 2015. Purkiss spent last season with League Two side, Swindon Town, making forty-five first-team appearances.
Ben joined the Saddlers in 2012 and made seventy-three appearances in three seasons before joining Port Vale in 2015. Purkiss spent last season with League Two side, Swindon Town, making forty-five first-team appearances.
Speaking via the club's official website - Saddlers.co.uk, Saddlers boss Dean Keates welcomed the opportunity to add Ben to his squad, he said; "It’s good to have Ben on board. He has a wealth of experience and is highly regarded at the club – staff and supporters – from his first spell with us.
"He’s struggled a little with injury since leaving Swindon at the end of last season. He will continue his rehabilitation with us and also undertake scouting duties and we will see how things evolve over the season.
"He has made over 400 senior appearances and is Chairman of the PFA, so he’s an asset with a great affinity to the club."