The Saddlers have announced the signing of former Newcastle United youngster, Martin Brittain.

Released by Newcastle United at the end of the 2005-06 season, Brittain joined Ipswich Town in August 2006 after spending a week on trial at Portman Road. He had made just one start for the St James’ Park side, ironically in his final appearance for the club, having previously made seven appearances as a sub.

Ipswich then loaned him out to Yeovil, where he made a total of 15 starts in two spells (of 6 and 9 games), before Ipswich gave him a free at the end of the 2006/2007 season.

He joined Carlisle on a weekly contract at the beginning of this season, but was released after two appearances by the new manager, Greg Abbott, having been signed by Neil MacDonald.

The Northumberland-born midfielder has a reputation as a decent crosser of the ball as well as being good from dead-ball situations.