Ray Graydon: Darrell Clarke has to build Walsall step-by-step

After 12 years in League One, the Saddlers were relegated last season, with Clarke the man who has been tasked with turning their fortunes around.

Graydon famously won promotion with Walsall to what is now the Championship in 1999 and 2001.

Now he is hoping Clarke can bring the good times back to the club. But he says there is a lot of work to be done.

“When a team has been relegated there is a black cloud over everybody – from the owner to the man selling ice-creams,” the 71-year-old said.

“It’s a very black moment.

“Darrell now has the biggest role at the football club.

“He needs to get his team together. Get it moving in the right direction and then build and build a little bit more.

“The supporters need to see some light. First, he needs to get the players together.

“And then the supporters will come along if they can see things are being done correctly.

“As look as they see the players giving their all and a team that is progressing, they won’t complain.”

Clarke has so far made two signings in the close season with Stuart Sinclair and James Clarke following him from Bristol Rovers.

And Graydon believes it was important the boss brought in some players who know how he works.

“A lot of players have left and a lot of players will come in,” Graydon continued. “But as a manager, your players have to back you up.

“The signings that have come in clearly believe in Darrell. They have had success with him.

“And they will tell the other players this fella knows what he is talking about and has a clear idea what he wants.

“He knows their characters and he knows the influence they can have on the group.

“I just want to send him my best wishes, I hope he can have a successful year and build a team that continually moves forward throughout the season.”