Jon Whitney: It's only just begun for Walsall
Jon Whitney has set his sights on taking Walsall into the Championship after being appointed the club's permanent manager.
The 45-year-old, who stepped in as interim head coach following the sacking of Sean O'Driscoll, was officially confirmed as the Saddlers' new boss after signing a three-year contract.
He will be assisted by former Walsall defender Dean Holden who has agreed a new deal to continue as first-team coach after being added to the backroom staff in March.
Whitney, who initially joined Walsall 13 years ago as a physio, guided the club to a third-placed finish in League One last season.
But the Saddlers missed out on winning promotion to the Championship after being beaten by Barnsley in the play-offs.
Now the the boss is aiming to continue the good work the club has done over the past few years by making it to the Championship.
"Becoming Walsall manager is a very proud moment for me and my family," Whitney said. "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 13 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 have a great working relationship with (chairman) Jeff Bonser who has always been fair and honest."
