George Dobson has joined League One Walsall on a season-long loan.

The West Ham United youngster, who joined the Hammers from Arsenal last summer, made 21 appearances in the development squad who won the under-21 Premier League Cup.

The 18-year-old, who is a West Ham supporter, was also named on the first team substitute’s bench for the wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Everton last season.

He said: “Playing in League One is a big step up, but one I’m confident I can adapt to.

“Last season Walsall finished third, so you can see the ambition and the talent is there.

“I had a full season with the under-21s last season which was very good, I enjoyed it a lot and now I feel ready for the next step.

“My plan was to go out on loan at some point this year, I just didn’t know when.

“Now it’s happened, I can’t wait to get started.”

The midfielder captained Arsenal’s under-18s before making the switch to east London and will hope to make an impression for the Saddlers.