Saddlers snap up Ian Sharps as first-team coach

Sharps replaces Dean Holden after he left the club last week to become Lee Johnson's right-hand man at Sky Bet Championship side Bristol City.

The 36-year-old, who had been assistant manager at Chester since May, joins a Saddlers side currently sitting 14th in the table and unbeaten in the league since September 27.

Speaking to the official website, Sharps said: " I feel very privileged to have been offered the job and I can't wait to get started.

"I got to know the club well when I worked here about two years ago with the young professionals before John Ward's appointment. I've kept in close contact with the club ever since.

"I spent six months at Chester as their assistant manager and have coached in a number of academies, working with young elite players.

"I enjoyed my time at Chester but this was too good a prospect to turn down. I'm an ambitious man and I want to continue to progress here."