Mark Hughes has become Walsall's first summer signing after joining the Saddlers from Northampton.
Defender becomes Walsall's first summer signing
Centre-back Mark Hughes has become Walsall's first summer signing after joining the Saddlers on a free transfer from Northampton.
The 22-year-old made over 100 appearances for the Cobblers after moving to Sixfields from Everton in January 2007.
Hughes, who can also operate in midfield, rejected the offer of a new contract on reduced terms in the wake of Northampton's relegation and has signed on at the Banks's Stadium.
Walsall manager Chris Hutchings told the club's official website: "We are delighted with this acquisition.
"Mark is a leader and a talker who has been captain of both Northampton and Everton reserves prior to that.
"We have had him watched regularly and received plenty of good feedback. He uses the ball well and arrives here at the right age ready to fill the void left by Anthony Gerrard's recent departure (to Cardiff).
"This is the first of what we hope will be a number of new signings as we continue to work hard behind the scenes to strengthen the squad."
