A wall of silence was erected around the Banks’s Stadium after chairman Jeff Bonser refused to comment on Jimmy Mullen’s sacking – fuelling speculation an appointment is imminent.

The Saddlers’ owner has dodged requests to explain the timing of Mullen’s departure and why he took the decision.

Former Carlisle boss John Ward had already spoken to the Saddlers board regarding the position, but it is understood former Villa and Albion boss Brian Little is not in the running.

Caretaker boss John Schofield stoked up rumours a manager will be appointed by the time the Saddlers travel to Peterborough on Saturday, by admitting he had not been given a time frame for his spell in charge.

He seemed unsure if he would be leading the team at London Road.

He said: “They asked me to organise the lads for Saturday and whether I am in charge or not they will be organised. You can’t get lost with things you can’t control.  If I am in charge it is important to get a result.”

Schofield, who watched Oldham’s win at home to Hartlepool last night, held a meeting with the squad yesterday, with Mullen also understood to have said his goodbyes at their Essington training ground.

The caretaker, who now could miss out on the top job, admitted he had not considered succeeding Mullen.

He said: “I have not thought about it. I am putting my concentration into stuff I can affect. I will do the best I can for me and my family – and prepare the team.”