Walsall confirm 12 departures ahead of summer rebuild | OneFootball

Walsall confirmed on Wednesday that 12 players will depart at the end of the 2025-26 season, signalling a significant summer rebuild.

The club have yet to appoint a permanent successor to Mat Sadler, who left in March after two wins in 14. Interim coach Darren Byfield oversaw four defeats in the final five League Two matches, and the Saddlers slipped to 13th after leading on Boxing Day.

The departures are Aden Flint, Brandon Comley, Jamille Matt, Charlie Lakin, Jamie Jellis, Evan Weir, Alfie Chang, Josh Gordon, Priestley Farquharson, Charlie Wragg, Dylan Thomas and Jake Hollman.

Centre-back Aden Flint played 48 times in 2025-26, scoring twice. Midfielder Brandon Comley, the longest-serving squad member, departs after 151 appearances. Former captain Jamille Matt scored 23 goals in 140 Walsall games, three this season, with his last start on 31 January.

Charlie Lakin recorded five goals and five assists in 97 outings across two campaigns. Jamie Jellis reached 100 appearances when he came on during the 3-1 defeat at Bromley. Evan Weir was limited to 22 games with Taylor Allen preferred.

Alfie Chang rejoined in January but managed only six appearances because of injuries. Josh Gordon endured hamstring setbacks and spent this season on loan at Barrow, scoring nine. Priestley Farquharson has battled injuries, and Charlie Wragg and Dylan Thomas debuted in the EFL Trophy.

Jake Hollman’s two-year deal was ended by mutual consent after one season, and he made eight appearances.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com