Bristol Rovers have completed their first piece of business this summer with the signature of Walsall midfielder Isaac Hutchinson for an undisclosed fee.
The deal will last three years with an option for a further season, according to the club’s official media. His primary position is a central midfielder but Hutchinson can play in a more attacking role as well as the left flank of the pitch.
The 24-year-old has had his best campaign yet appearing in every League Two fixture coverting fifteen goals and assisting a further twelve for The Saddlers in all competitions.
The midfielder spent two years at Southend United making 12 appearances in his debut professional year. He was then picked up by Championship side Derby County where he struggled to find game time which led to a loan spell at Crawley Town.
After securing a new permanent home at Walsall, Hutchinson hit the ground running becoming the focal point of Mat Sadler’s side and collecting the Supporters’ Player of the Season.
He will now be sporting the iconic blue and white and will likely slot straight into the Gas’s midfield. With Brandon Aguilera returning to his parent club Nottingham Forest, Hutchinson will be a crucial component in improving upon Rovers’ 15th-place finish last season. The goal-scorer had an expected 0.85 shot on target per 90 as well as a tenacious attitude winning 0.92 balls in the final 3rd.
With the departure of Hutchinson the West Midlands side will likely look to Jamie Jellis to fill his boots, who was signed from Tamworth last season.
Writer’s View
Isaac Hutchinson was a standout player for Walsall in their eleventh place finish last season. The midfielder will be sorely missed by fans with his presence being hard to replace.
This signing is a great statement for Bristol Rovers who will look to build beyond a mid-table finish. League One will be a great test for the 24-year-old who should find his footing quickly in a challenging 24/25 campaign.
