Monday 24 August 2015 19:17, UK
Chesterfield have signed midfielder Liam O'Neil from West Brom for an undisclosed fee.
O'Neil, who can also play in defence, came through the academy at Albion and has made five Premier League appearances for the club.
The 22-year-old also has experience of playing in League One, having featured 22 times last season for Scunthorpe - including against the Spireites at Glanford Park.
"Liam is a young player who has played in West Brom's first team. He's exactly what we want - a midfield player who can also play at the back, if required," said Chesterfield manager Dean Saunders.
"He's one for the future for us, having been tracked by the club for two-and-a-half years. We were going to loan him but we've managed to sign him permanently, which is great for the long-term future of the club."
O'Neil revealed that Saunders' persistence played a big part in him opting to join Chesterfield ahead of other interested clubs.
He said: "The gaffer got in touch with West Brom and has shown good interest.
"He's been on my case to get down here all the time and that's what I like. He sees me as part of his plans and that's what I want. I want to be getting regular football and that's key for me now. I'm 22 now and this is perfect timing."
