Courtney Clarke
A first EFL goal and his first goal for the #Saddlers 🤌
So pleased for you @CourtsOfficial4! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/P4vzDbt0dU
— Walsall FC (@WFCOfficial) November 29, 2025
This list focuses on young talent, and in Walsall’s Clarke, there is a unique story as well.
Clarke grew up playing football in the cages around his Hackney home before making a move to the pro game, and that has been cited as one of the reasons his profile feels quite unique. He progressed through Derby County’s youth system before heading into senior football with South Shields. A move to Eastbourne Borough for the 2024–25 season gave him regular minutes and three league goals, form that drew interest from higher up the pyramid.
Walsall completed his signing in June 2025 as he stepped into the Football League for the first time.
Like Snowdon, he can play right back or wing-back, but he has qualities that mark him out as an attacking threat. We love a full back pushed high, and both Adam Reach and Tendayi Darikwa have been creators in recent weeks. He’s not just a defender, though. In recent weeks, he’s been playing midfield for Walsall, scoring against Bromley this weekend.
Clarke has as well. He’s got four assists this season, but also delivers a decent cross. He wins 67.5% of his defensive duels, on average, and seems to have a blend of flair, guile, and adaptability, which I’m sure Michael Skubala could work with.