Mat Sadler, head coach of Walsall, has a mission to raise his club’s profile. Here in the fourth tier, he hopes to take them even further, up into League One. After a brief respite since the last season, Sadler is brimming with a sense of purpose. He’s very much invested in raising the club’s profile. His managerial career is still in its infancy, but he’s made impressive strides already. He was appointed on a permanent basis only in May 2023, but he’s already starting to make a significant splash.
Sadler, whose last game as a player came on May 7 2022, has long felt an affinity with Walsall. Michael Carrick for one, having two spells at the club through his playing career, racking up well over 100 appearances. No doubt, now as the head coach, he hopes to lead a team resurrection and build a culture of learning, success, and competition.
Through that same summer transfer window Sadler worked diligently. He had eight new permanent signings through the door and seven loan arrivals helped him bolster a slim squad. One of those new additions is four-time EFL promotion winner Aden Flint, experience the Reds will sorely need.
Walsall are in first place in Sky Bet League Two! That is an amazing accomplishment even considering that the club had only accrued 26 points at this same juncture last year. Sadler’s leadership has brought about a revival for Walsall, culminating in an amazing nine-match winning run. Egregiously successful on one end of the pitch, the team is in possession of the record for their league’s lowest average possession. They have the most touches per shot and most passes per shot as well.
This tactic deeply aligns with Sadler’s overall vision of a connected unit. One that places an emphasis on form and fluid transitions. He emphasizes the importance of hard work and staying true to their identity as they navigate the challenges of the season.
“We’re very organised, very energetic in the way that we play, very disciplined in our shape and athletic on the transition.” – Mat Sadler
The overall passion and ferocity of Walsall’s fanbase undoubtedly runs through the team and feeds their fire. Sadler recognizes their influence, noting,
Sadler’s focus on building a strong culture goes beyond what he teaches on the court, too. He believes that maintaining strong connections with players is vital for success.
“We’ve just got an incredible army of supporters that follow this football club. They’re just desperate for their team to have some better times, which I’m also desperate to bring to the club.” – Mat Sadler
With Walsall looking to continue their impressive run of form, Sadler knows that first and foremost, the equality between players in the squad is key. Third, he says this is all about alignment — of players and the end goals.
“The biggest thing is just to try and work hard, be true to who you are, try and remain connected to the players.” – Mat Sadler
Walsall are on the offensive attack, like literally, as they are pressing forward hard in their League Two campaign. Sadler knows that a great work ethic combined with an upbeat environment is the recipe for their success.
“As long as everyone’s pulling in the same direction, then things will work out. We’ve got an identity, a very clear one, and we’re all aligned on that.” – Mat Sadler
Sadler’s lofty ambitions for the club are unequivocal. Personally, he’s extremely ambitious and would love to see Walsall get back to where they used to be – in the Championship. Nash knows the weight of responsibility that rests on his shoulders but is resolutely committed to the work ahead.
“So many things are vital to components of a good team, but underpinning all of that is the environment. Everyone brings an amazing energy and atmosphere to this place and a culture that we want to improve.” – Mat Sadler
As the season deepens and frustrations mount, Sadler’s patience will be put to the test. What he does know is that growth is fundamental to the journey. He looks forward to evaluating his learning experiences.
“That is probably what keeps me awake at night, to keep working hard, to keep striving and to keep ensuring we bring a positivity to the place because the supporters bring that and have such a massive, massive impact on us.” – Mat Sadler
As the season progresses and challenges arise, Sadler’s resolve will be tested. He acknowledges that growth is part of the journey and looks forward to evaluating his learning experiences as they unfold.
“I suppose it depends if I learn – I’ll tell you the answer on May 2!” – Mat Sadler
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