Walsall have announced the appointment of former Bristol Boss Darrell Clark as their new manager.
The saddlers were relegated from League One this season after finishing the campaign third from bottom winning just 12 of their 46 matches. They sacked previous boss Dean Keates shortly before the end of the season hoping to avoid the inevitable after a terrible run but left themselves too to do.
Clark joins the club on a three-year deal after four years as Bristol Rovers manager achieving two promotions in that time. Upon arrival Clark announced he was delighted to return to management and is hoping to get the club on an upward trajectory.
“I can’t wait to get started,” said Clarke.
“I have spoken with members of the Board on a number of occasions and this is a project I am really looking forward to.
“I am excited by the challenge that lies ahead. This is a great club and I can’t wait to get my teeth into the task at hand.
“The club have had a couple of disappointing seasons and we now find ourselves in League Two. I want to give these brilliant fans something to shout about, put a smile on their faces and give them a team that will give their all for the club and the badge.
“I like my teams to be on the front foot and play attractive, attacking football with the ability to adapt to different scenarios.
“I know all about the division we are in, I’ve had success at League Two level before and I want to bring the good times back. I will work tirelessly to achieve our shared goals.”
The D3D4 take
Considering the sentimentality of recent appointments by the Saddlers this one seems to buck the trend and go for the tried and tested route. Darrell Clarke has a proven record of getting results without needing a huge budget to do it.
Walsall can now regroup and rebuild over the summer with this appoinment coming nice and early, allowing Clarke plenty of time to make the changes he requires.