Matt Sadler: Walsall sacks its coach after defeating Salford

Walsall have sacked manager Matt Sadler following Tuesday’s defeat to Salford City which left them with just one win in their last 11 League Two matches.

The 1-0 loss was the third in a row and further diminished their challenge for a playoff spot.

Walsall were four points clear at the top of the table in early December, but a run of two wins in 14 games since Boxing Day has left them 11th in the table, three points off the top seven with 10 games remaining.

Sadler, a former defender at the club, leaves after almost three years in charge, having been appointed on a permanent basis in May 2023 after a short interim period.

Walsall FC co-chairman Ben Boycott said: “I would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to the great efforts and contributions Matt has made, both professionally and as a person, during his time at the club.”, external

“We thank him for his dedicated service and wish him the best for the future.”

The club also confirmed that coach Darren Byfield will take temporary charge of the team with the support of Terry Connor and the rest of the staff.