Saddlers Legends

We’ve had a few solid and dependable defenders over the years at Walsall but one who stands up there with the best of them is Chris Marsh.

The right-back was flexible to say the least having also been used as a striker and a goalkeeper during his 15 years with the club.

He began as an apprentice in 1986 before turning pro in 1988. His consistent displays meant that Marsh became a regular feature even after changes in management of which he saw 14 during his time with the Saddlers.

Some of Marsh’s highlights were the 3 promotions he was involved with, in particular in the 1998/99 season when he grabbed a crucial goal in the match against Oldham at Bescot that saw us take our place in Division 1. This was one of 30 goals in an incredible 481 games and for a right-back that ain’t too bad!

Having had a testimonial Marsh left Walsall and headed to Wycombe, then under the management of now Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez, where he made just 20 appearances. He then spent 2 years at Northampton before calling time on his 17 year career.

At the beginning of this year Marsh got back into football after a couple of years away. He is now down under as a coach at Sorrento FC.

During his time away from the game he wrote a book called ‘The Good, The Bad & The Boozy’ in which he looks at life as a lower league football player.

If you have any memories of Marsh let us know on our forum.