Walsall have confirmed on their official website that manager Dean Smith has signed a new deal. Today, he penned a new 12-month rolling contract to remain at the Bescot Stadium.
44-year-old Smith, who started his career as a player with Walsall, has steadily improved during his time in charge of the League One club. Since his appointment in January 2011, after a spell as the Head of Youth with the West Midlands club, he has led them to the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final last season and to the top of League One this season.
He is soon closing in on five-years in the job, which is certainly a rarity in the modern game. The fourth longest-serving manager in the English game expressed his delight at signing a new contract,
“I’m really pleased to have signed a new deal. My current deal was up at the end of the season so I’m glad it’s been sorted.
I’m happy with how we are developing as a club. Now I’m looking forward to continuing the progress we’ve made.
I’ve enjoyed my time in charge so far and I’m still learning every day. I feel like I am getting better as a manager and I just want to keep developing.”
Last season’s appearance at Wembley versus Bristol City in the JPT final was their first trip to the iconic stadium in 127 years. Although they lost the game 2-0, seeing 30,000 Saddlers fans walking up Wembley Way was an unforgettable day in their recent history.
Smith has overseen steady progress since taking over from Chris Hutchings. This season looks like the first time they will seriously challenge for promotion. In August he won the Manger of the Month award and tomorrow they’ll be hoping to extend their stay at the top of the table with a positive result against Chesterfield.
