Chris Marsh: Science key for Walsall success

Walsall legend Chris Marsh believes Jon Whitney's background in sports science could prove key to the club's success next season.

Whitney, who was appointed interim head coach following the sacking of Sean O'Driscoll in March, is expected to be appointed permanent manager this week.

The 45-year-old has previously been employed as the club's physio and was also head of the medical department under former boss Dean Smith.

Marsh's name will always be etched in Saddlers folklore following his 13 years at the club in which he made more than 470 appearances.

But he says the game has changed substantially since his retirement in 2003 – making Whitney's knowledge even more crucial.

"The game these days is all about preparation," Marsh said. "In my day you could have some fish and chips and a few beers after a game, but that's all changed now.

"Now there are no excuses and that's why, if Jon does get the job, I think it will be a good call by Jeff Bonser.

"It's clear he really knows his stuff when it comes to getting players game ready.

"He has been at the club a long time so he knows the players inside out and how they each need to be looked after. He will get them in phenomenal shape which will give them the opportunity to make a flying start."

Marsh also believes Whitney deserves the job for how he performed in the role last season, even if Walsall ended up crashing out of the play-offs to eventual winners Barnsley.

"Jon had a very good win rate when he took over," he added. "He deserves a go. I know he lost in the play-offs but – even though it was over two legs – those play-off games really are a one-off. Anything can happen.

"He provided stability and got the team going again after Sean O'Driscoll left.

"He made sure they finished in the play-offs and before the start of the season every Saddlers fan would have snapped your hand off for that."

Elsewhere, Saddlers Rico Henry and Romaine Sawyers have been named in the Football League, League One Team of the Season. Former Walsall star Will Grigg was also named in the side alongside the likes of Gillingham's Bradley Dack and Millwall's Lee Gregory.