John Ward joins Walsall's backroom staff

Former Bristol Rovers boss John Ward has been appointed to Walsall's backroom staff.

The 64-year-old moves to the Banks's Stadium as professional development coach to help progress young players at the Saddlers.

Ward left Rovers as director of football last year, after their relegation from the Football League, and has also managed Cheltenham, Carlisle and Colchester.

"It's nice to get back on the grass, get my boots on and start working with players again," he said.

"I've had a while out of it so I'm looking forward to it. I've always described myself as a coach who manages, rather than a manager who coaches.

"Working with teams and players individually - particularly with the young lads here now - in some ways, it's me giving something back to the game after an enjoyable career.

"My role is to help these young players to get in around the first team, and support them emotionally, physically and tactically.

"I can't say I'll get six players in the first-team and they'll stay there because for players aged 18/19/20 that's a tough ask.

"But it's about developing a relationship with the players."