 Port Vale attempted to take him loan on 20 September, but were told by Walsall that only a permanent deal would suffice.The following week, he was offered a trial at Queens Park Rangers, but again returned to Walsall.On 10 October 2001, he finally left the Bescot Stadium, joining league newcomers Rushden & Diamonds on a free transfer, playing alongside fellow former Torquay forwards Scott Partridge and Duane Darby.