Jon Whitney: Relax and enjoy the run-in
Jon Whitney has called on Walsall's players to "relax and enjoy" the promotion run-in, after being appointed interim head coach.
The 45-year-old has been placed in charge of first-team affairs following Sean O'Driscoll's sacking and will now be given a chance to stake his claim for the permanent position.
Previously the club's physio, Whitney impressed during a caretaker spell in charge following Dean Smith's departure in November to the extent that, when O'Driscoll was appointed the next month, he was made assistant boss.
Despite a run of six games without a win, which led to the latter's dismissal on Sunday, Whitney reckons all is still to play for and has promised to approach the challenge in positive fashion.
"I think people who know me will know even the most dire circumstances I tend to find enjoyable, because I tend to get a positive spin on most things," he said.
"It (this week) has been OK. It is not that hard, I know the players and we have not changed many personnel and for me most of the day to day stuff is very similar.
"For me coming to this side things have to be a little different. I think we have to set out parameters for the players to adhere to.
"But I want my door to be open and for there to be a fluidity around the place, I want people to relax and enjoy being here.
"We have accountability, we are professional footballers and we have a job but, while we are doing it, let's enjoy it and see where it takes us for this mini-season of about 12 games."
Walsall, who visit Chesterfield on Saturday, are fourth in League One, five points adrift of the automatic promotion places but with a game in hand.
Whitney, who will be assisted by John Ward and Neil Cutler, is eager to put a smile back on people's faces after a difficult period.
"We need to get back to having some momentum and fluidity to our play," he said. "I understand we have always got a really good defensive shape but I want the players to go and show the fans what they are about now.
"We will play with an energy enthusiasm and a smile on our face. The knock on of that is the fans will have smile on their face, the board will have a smile on their face and it gives me a chance to have a longer career on this side of the table."
