Standing makes Walsall move
The 23-year-old was made available with the rest of his team-mates in the summer and has now signed a 12-month deal with The Saddlers.
Merson is aware of Standing's ability having been impressed with the player's attitude when they were both at Villa Park.
''I was impressed with him as a youngster at Villa Park and feel that he will improve our squad,'' Merson told the club's official website.
''He has fantastic ability on the ball, plays the game with plenty of enthusiasm and has good legs, qualities that will fit in well next season.''
The arrival of Standing is coupled with the news that striker Gary Birch has extended his contract for another 12 months, despite spending the latter half of the season on loan at Barnsley.
