Walsall appoint Jon Whitney on three-year deal

The 45-year-old replaced the sacked Sean O'Drisocll in March and guided the Saddlers to a third-place finish in League One.

As part of the move, former Walsall defender Dean Holden has agreed a new deal to continue as first team coach and will work alongside fellow backroom members Neil Cutler and John Ward.

"Jon is the right man for the job," said Walsall chairman, Jeff Bonser.

"He knows the inner workings of the club and has all the relevant knowledge and experience to take the club forward.

"He understands the philosophy and has an excellent relationship with the players, staff, fans and board of directors alike."

Walsall chief executive Stefan Gamble added: "Jon has been overseeing first-team affairs since March and in that time has impressed everyone with his attitude, style of play, work ethic and professionalism.

"We enjoyed a fantastic end to the season and, whilst it was disappointing to lose in the play-offs, we feel he has the right base and skill set to take the club forward."

Whitney has been part of the furniture at the Banks's Stadium since 2003 where he first joined as the club's physio.

He was then promoted to become head of the medical department under former boss Dean Smith.

The former Huddersfield, Hull and Lincoln defender said: "It's a very proud moment for me and my family.

"I'm really looking forward to it and I'm excited about continuing the work we started last season.

"I've been at the club for over thirteen years now and I'm extremely proud that Walsall have given me my first permanent position in football management.

"It's about finishing the job and creating a sense of unity, not just in the squad but together with the fans and everyone connected with the club so we can all push on together.

"I'll have the same energy, enthusiasm and commitment but the biggest thing for me is to enjoy it.

"I want to make sure we develop the ethos that we've created over last 5 years and hopefully take it to the next level."