Lee Grant Takes Over as Walsall Head Coach
Walsall Football Club has named Lee Grant, the former manager of Huddersfield Town, as their new head coach. Grant, aged 43, has committed to a three-year contract at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium.
He succeeds Darren Byfield, a former Saddlers striker who served as interim head coach until the end of the season following the dismissal of Mat Sadler in March.
Walsall concluded the League Two season in 13th place, finishing 13 points short of the play-offs after having been top of the table at Christmas.
"I'm super delighted and proud to be the new head coach," said Grant, who was relieved of his duties by Huddersfield Town in January after an eight-month tenure.
"The teams I've been involved in have scored lots of goals and there's been a good development of players and my ideas around that are strong - it's going to be a busy period for myself and the club but I'm really excited to get going, help the football club progress and I very much look forward to getting to work."
Grant's Coaching Background and Previous Management Role
Prior to his appointment at Walsall, Grant spent three years on the coaching staff at Ipswich Town. He is a former goalkeeper with playing experience at Sheffield Wednesday, Burnley, and Derby County.
Grant was appointed as Huddersfield Town's manager in May 2025, marking his first senior management role. However, he departed the club after eight months, despite Huddersfield sitting sixth in League One at the time of his exit.
Walsall's Recent Coaching Changes and Club Statements
Darren Byfield had been serving as interim head coach following Mat Sadler's sacking in March. The club also recently released 12 players, including defender Flint.
Stewart Mairs, who was appointed as Walsall's head of football a month ago, commented on the recruitment process for the new head coach. Speaking to the club website, Mairs described the search as "extremely thorough," involving numerous "outstanding candidates."
"From the outset, we were very clear on the type of leader we wanted to bring to the football club - someone capable of driving standards, developing the group and helping us move the club forward," said Mairs.
"Throughout the process, Lee demonstrated a tremendous hunger and desire to be part of this football club.
"He is highly articulate, detail-oriented and possesses a strong understanding of the modern game. It is our job to support him and maximise his skill set."
