Walsall head coach hunt, candidates linked and timeline as decision edges closer | OneFootball

Walsall are still without a permanent successor to Mat Sadler, leaving supporters waiting to learn who will lead next season.

ExpressAndStar.com reports that Sadler was dismissed in March after two wins from 14, including a first run of three straight defeats in his two-and-a-half year reign. Walsall were three points off the play-offs then and ended 13 adrift.

Former Huddersfield Town manager Lee Grant has been linked, with claims he is on a shortlist. He left in January after eight months, with a 41.7 per cent win rate and the Terriers in sixth.

South Shields boss Ian Watson has also been mentioned, although chairman Geoff Thompson has twice dismissed the idea on social media. Luke Garrard was another name, but the long-time Boreham Wood manager signed a new contract on Monday.

Darren Byfield oversaw the final 10 matches as interim, starting with five unbeaten before four defeats in his last five. He said after the season he was unsure about his future, and it remains unclear whether he is under consideration.

Head of football Stewart Mairs said last week the appointment was close and called the process intense and thorough. The club released 12 players, so the new head coach faces an immediate rebuild.

Byfield suggested before the final game that an update should arrive within a week, but that has passed without a public development. Patience could wear thin if the wait extends beyond the end of May, with plans for the summer window and pre-season pressing.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com