STARS ABROAD: New coach awaits Vincent Harper at Walsall

English League Two side Walsall home to Kenyan international Vincent Harper have parted ways with head coach Mat Sadler following a poor run of results that has seen the club slip out of the promotion play-off spots.

The decision came after a 1-0 defeat to Salford City on Tuesday, March 10, which marked the Saddlers’ third consecutive loss. Walsall have managed just two wins in their last 14 matches, a run that has seen them drop to 11th place in EFL League Two despite previously being among the favourites for promotion.

Sadler, who signed Harper before the start of the current season, had regularly featured the Harambee Stars defender in his team.

Appointed in May 2023, Sadler spent nearly three years in charge of the Saddlers and oversaw more than 150 matches during his tenure. His time at the club included guiding Walsall to the League Two play-off final last season after narrowly missing out on automatic promotion on the final day of the campaign.

Shabana star reveals how club is polishing weak area identified after AFC Leopards humbling

Under his leadership, Walsall also recorded a club record nine consecutive league victories and enjoyed several memorable cup runs. Among the highlights was holding Leicester City to a goalless draw in the third round of the FA Cup before eventually losing on penalties.

Despite the recent struggles, Sadler still leaves with the highest win percentage of any Walsall manager in more than 25 years.

In a statement, Walsall co-chairman Ben Boycott thanked the departing coach for his service.

Mariga explains why FKF is courting over 15 Harambee Stars prospects

“I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the significant efforts and contributions of Mat, both as a professional and as a person, during his time at the club. We thank him for his dedicated service and wish him the very best for the future,” Boycott said.

Assistant coach Darren Byfield will take interim charge of the team as they prepare for Saturday’s fixture against Crewe Alexandra.

The club has said it will communicate further updates on the appointment of a new head coach in due course.

Ksh1 million fine and other penalties included in match fixing bill currently in parliament