Joe Foulkes Returns to Walsall with Grimsby Signing

Joe Foulkes, 23, has signed for Grimsby Town and will face his former club Walsall on Saturday. The former Walsall right‑back, who made 23 appearances across all competitions under Mat Sadler during the 2023‑24 season, left the Saddlers at the end of that campaign and has now returned to the Football League.

Signing Details

Foulkes joined Grimsby Town after being released by Walsall. He will take the field at Blundell Park this weekend, setting up a home fixture against the club that gave him his first taste of league football. The move marks a return to league football for the player, who had spent the previous season on loan at Kidderminster Harriers.

Foulkes on Walsall

When asked about his time at Walsall, Foulkes said, “I did really enjoy it. I met some really nice people there and learned a lot, especially as a young lad coming into League Two at the time.” He added that the experience under new manager Mat Sadler was a “massive boost in confidence” and that he had no complaints about the club. “The fans were great and made me feel very welcome,” he said, and he hopes to walk away with the three points in his upcoming match.

Past Successes

Foulkes’ recent form earned him a place in the National League with Kidderminster Harriers. He helped the club achieve promotion in the final season of his two‑year loan in 2023, and again guided them to play‑off success the following year. He described the promotion as a confidence booster and praised the special group of teammates that helped him reach that milestone.

Looking Ahead

Now at Grimsby, Foulkes expressed enthusiasm for his new challenge. “It’s a privilege to be able to play not just in the Football League, but with this club,” he said. He is eager to learn new things and embrace the demands of League Two, hoping his experience will help the Mariners secure points in their upcoming fixtures.

The match against Walsall will be a personal test for Foulkes, offering a chance to showcase the growth he has made since leaving the Saddlers and to contribute to Grimsby's campaign in the fourth tier.