Assistant Manger News

Walsall are not planing to appoint a full time assistant manager. Instead Richard Money is hoping that Mark Kinsella will be involved more this season, not only on the pitch but also coaching with the first team. Mark will also be looking after the reserves as well. This does sound like the release of Simon Osborn was more of a straight choice between Kinsella and himself. Whilst no one can deny the playing impact of Osborn, Kinsella’s greater experience at domestic and international level has counted for him. Kinsella has also been instrumental in looking to Ireland for new players, Gilmartin been the only success so far however. Another factor is the need for change, Osborn is viewed as supportive of Merson’s regime, whilst Kinsella’s view was to speak out against it, a factor which could explain why he was marginalised under Merson.

This decision gives Money complete control over most things first team wise,coaching, scouting transfers etc. However Mick Halsall, Eric McManus and Bill Jones will look after the youth side, and Mick Kearns will continue as part time goal keeping coach.