Dean Saunders has made his fourth first team addition of the summer transfer window, after signing midfielder Liam O’Neil from Premier League side West Bromwich Albion.
The 22-year-old, who had extended his stay at the Hawthorns until the summer of 2016, joins the Spireites for an undisclosed fee. His contract length is also currently undisclosed. He is known to be able to play in both midfield and defence; a quality that suits the lack of depth in Saunders’ squad.
O’Neill made five Premier League appearances for West Brom, and was seen as a promising young player by Baggies fans. He featured 22 times for Scunthorpe United last season when he was on loan from the top flight club. Dean Saunders expressed his delight when he talked to the club’s website.
Saunders said:
“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.
“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.”
“He (Saunders) has 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.“I want to get some experience and develop as a player and I think I’ll be able to do that here. I’m looking forward to it and I’m excited.”
