AFC Telford close to signing Jack Roberts

Roberts, 24, is a defensive midfield player and has been playing four years of football in the United States.

The Leicester City academy graduate will complete his deal later this week, after impressing Kittrick enough to be offered an opportunity.

Kittrick said: "Jack has been offered a deal. There are just a few bits of paperwork but I fully expect it to be finalised in the next couple of days.

"Like a number of the players we have been looking at, Jack has impressed and taken the opportunity as we look to build a squad."

Roberts made the bench against Shifnal Town and started against AFC Wulfrunians on Saturday. He has recently been on trial with National League side Lincoln City and is based in Hinckley.

He will be available for selection tonight, as League One side Walsall travel to New Bucks Head for the Bucks' first home pre-season clash.

And the Bucks boss is keen for the Telford faithful to get behind a 'new team' – but also sees it as a key chance for other trialists to really make a name for themselves.

He said: "I've heard things being said that Walsall are looking to bring a strong team here which is always great.

"You want to play professional sides – especially those at the top of their game.

"But it's a double-edged sword – if they bring a team of kids then those kids will all be looking to push through and make a point.

"If they bring the big names, then they'll be trying to find fitness and stake their claim for the first-team.

"We have Derby and Wolves coming up as well. It's something we've looked to set up.

"It's virtually a new squad and they've gelled really well so far against Shifnal and Wulfrunians – but Walsall is a different test.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the lads against good opposition. It's OK in front of two or three hundred but how will they cope in front of 1,000-plus?"