Jeff Bonser staying away from Walsall

Walsall have admitted chairman Jeff Bonser is staying away from the club because of his "negative" presence.

The under-fire owner has stopped attending games after receiving abuse from fans at the Banks's Stadium.

Speaking at a fans' forum last night, chief executive Stefan Gamble confirmed Bonser was keen not to add to a negative atmosphere at the struggling Saddlers.

Gamble said; "At the end of last season he felt his presence at the games was negative so he has decided to stay away. It's difficult to speak on behalf of the chairman.

"While the chairman is here and has ownership of the club he is here every day and will do his best for the football club."

The issue of Bonser selling the club was also briefly raised and Gamble reiterated the Saddlers were still for sale – but had received no offers.

He said: "The chairman has made it public he is ready to go and someone has to come along and take it off his hands

"While he is still here he will work his socks off for Walsall Football Club."

But in a positive meeting the club discussed a wide range of issues with 50 fans at the Banks's Stadium.

Supporters quizzed Gamble, secretary Dan Mole and board members Leigh Pomlett and Richard Tisdale.

The club have lost around 2,000 fans over the past few seasons and they are determined to reconnect with them.

They are going to extend their mini Saddlers scheme up to under-12s, while there is a plan to hold an open day at the Banks's Stadium in April for fans to see the team train before a meet and greet.

The club are also keen on renovating the Bescot Bar and building a museum but said this would cost around £250,000.

They also revealed they would look into fans' requests for a singing section at the Banks's Stadium in a bid to improve the atmosphere.