League One outfit Walsall have swooped to sign one of Manchester United's most promising youngsters, Paul McShane, on a one-month deal.

The 18-year-old versatile defender caught the eye of the United faithful and other clubs alike when starring in The Red Devils' depleted squad during the pre-season tour of the United States of America and has also shined in Ricky Sbraiga's reserve side.

McShane has represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-19 level since joining the academy back in 1998. Boss at the Bescott Stadium Paul Merson is delighted to have the youngster on-board, saying: "I need cover in that area and I'm pleased that Paul has agreed to join us. It's hard to get players in at this time of year because nobody wants to let people go, but the timing of his arrival is ideal."

He continued: "This lad has been a regular for United's reserve team and has also been on the fringes of their first-team. I know that United think highly of him and I have no worries about throwing him straight in."

"He is a strong, combative and enthusiastic player who can play in the centre of defence or at right-back and importantly he wants to play for us. He was on his way back to Ireland to spend Christmas with his family but as soon as he heard we wanted him, he turned around and came straight back. That shows how much he wants to be here and I am confident that he will do a good job for us."

Best of luck to Paul at the Bescott.