Former Stratford Town Youth striker Dylan Parker signs professional contract at Walsall

FORMER Stratford Town Youth striker Dylan Parker has signed his first professional contract with Walsall.

The 18-year-old joined the Saddlers from FC Stratford last October and scored twice on his youth team debut against Bury after coming on as a half-time substitute.

He scored 11 goals in 20 games for the under-18s, while also netting one in two outings for the club's development squad.

“It’s such a relief to be at the club and playing with some great players,” said Parker, who joined Stratford Town as a five-year-old in the club's Grasshoppers' section.

“I joined in October so I only had six months at under-18s. I really enjoyed it and it was a massive step up coming into a professional academy.

“It’s another step up now and the intensity has gone up a lot, but I feel I’m doing alright with it.

“I’m really glad to finally be a professional.”