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'I was sold instantly' - former Everton defender becomes latest academy graduate to find new club The 21-year-old has signed a two-year contract with League Two side Walsall Former Everton youngster Roman Dixon has joined League Two club Walsall. The 21-year-old rose from the Under-12s to the first team at the Blues, making a Premier League start in the defeat at Tottenham Hotspur under Sean Dyche just under two years ago. An England youth international, his development was hampered by a serious injury last summer - one that ended his plans for a full season on loan with Stockport County. When he returned to fitness, he was able to move to Edgeley Park in January and he made nine appearances as the team reached the finals of the League One play-offs and the EFL Trophy. Dixon was part of a clutch of Everton youngsters that reached the first team and its environs but were released this summer. Tyler Onyango has since signed for Sheffield Wednesday, Reece Welch for Bradford City and Francis Okoronkwo for Doncaster Rovers. Upon being the latest of that group to find a club, Dixon said: "It feels unbelievable to join. I've been around the group of lads and they've been brilliant with me and really helped me settle already and feel part of the family. "I grew up not too far from here in Stafford/Wolverhampton so it feels like a trip down memory lane in some ways but when the gaffer rang me I was sold instantly. He gave me his plan, his philosophy and his style of play over many conversations and they were nothing but positive things to hear - the way he spoke and sees the game sparked my interest from the off. "I'm a player who likes to get forward with my speed and get up and down the pitch using my acceleration. Of course my main priority is to defend but I also like to contribute further up field too and hopefully I'll be able to do that. "I really can't wait to get started and get into the flow with games - it'll be great to be part of a team again and get the winning feeling so it's definitely something I'm excited for." FOLLOW OUR EVERTON FC FACEBOOK PAGE! Latest EFC news and analysis from via the Liverpool Echo’s dedicated FB page