Jason Demetriou: Walsall sign former Leyton Orient right-back

Image source, Empics

Image caption, Jason Demetriou scored 14 times in his 167 appearances for Leyton Orient

Walsall have made their first signing of the summer by bringing in defender Jason Demetriou.

The 27-year-old former Leyton Orient right-back has spent the past five years playing in Cyprus.

He first played for Saddlers boss Dean Smith in his days at Orient, where he made 167 first-team appearances.

The Cyprus international, who has won 24 caps, moved to AEK Larnaca in 2010 before signing for Anorthosis Famagusta three years later.

"I have known Jason for a long time," said Saddlers boss Dean Smith. "He will bring bags of energy, great technique and a winning mentality.

"He has the know-how and drive that we are looking for. He's an extremely talented player so I'm delighted that we have been able to persuade him to come here."

Demetriou added: "I owe a lot to Dean Smith. I worked closely with him when I was coming up through the youth ranks at Leyton Orient.

"I've missed the buzz of the English game and this opportunity has come up at the right time for me."