Walsall set for smaller squad as non-league strategy evolves | OneFootball

Walsall plan to run with a leaner squad under Lee Grant next season, and the rebuild is under way. According to ExpressAndStar.com, head of football Stewart Mairs has floated a smaller group as the club reshape after a wave of exits.

Twelve players were released at the end of last season, followed by Connor Barrett and Sam Hornby departing. New arrivals Lewis Simper and Andrew Dallas have joined in the past fortnight, and Rico Browne’s new deal takes the contracted group to 15.

Mairs has suggested a ballpark squad of 23, three fewer than the 26 that closed last summer’s window. On that basis, Walsall require another eight signings to reach the target.

Versatility is being prioritised. Simper is chiefly an attacking midfielder, yet also featured as an eight and on both wings for Sutton United. Since arriving at Bescot in September 2025, Browne has covered both sides of a back three and right-back in a 4-3-3.

A trimmer group could keep more players involved. Loanees Dan Cox and Rico Richards started a combined five League Two games last season, while spells out of the side for Barrett and Evan Weir repeatedly prompted debate. Spreading minutes across competitions would help maintain engagement.

Business so far: In, Simper from Sutton and Dallas from Barnsley, both free. Out, Barrett to Wigan for an undisclosed fee and Hornby to Hednesford on a free. Released players included Brandon Comley, Jamille Matt and Aden Flint, while Jake Hollman left after his contract was terminated.

Recruitment has moved from National League North and South towards the National League itself, illustrated by Simper and Dallas. Simper registered 12 goals and six assists for Sutton last season, and Dallas scored 17 for Southend United in the division.

Both are older profiles at 24 and 26, whereas Jamie Jellis, Connor Barrett, Harrison Burke and Courtney Clarke were 22 when they arrived. Next, Football League experience could be targeted.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com