Michael Standing has completed a move to Walsall on a free transer after his contract at Bradford was cancelled by mutual consent.

The 23-year-old midfielder renews his acquaintance with former Aston Villa team-mate Paul Merson, who has made Standing his first signing as manager at the Bescot Stadium.

Standing reached a financial settlement with the Bantams as his contract was not due to expire until the end of the 2004-05 season.