Darren Byfield, the interim head coach of Walsall, expressed his desire to eventually manage a club, although he clarified that he is not involved in the decision-making process regarding Mat Sadler’s permanent replacement. Sadler was relieved of his duties after Tuesday’s 1-0 loss to Salford City left the club struggling in their play-off bid.
Byfield, who is stepping in for Saturday’s League Two match against play-off contenders Crewe Alexandra, stated he has yet to receive any further direction regarding the coaching situation.
“Mat Sadler made a huge impact on everyone with his character. Many here miss him, and we acknowledge he did a commendable job,” Byfield shared with BBC Radio WM. “But we struggled to get results.”
‘This is my football club’
At 49, Byfield’s managerial experience primarily lies in non-league football, having previously led teams like Redditch United, Stratford Town, Walsall Wood, and Alvechurch. He also had a brief interim stint with Crawley Town in League Two before joining Walsall’s coaching staff in July 2023.
“I aspire to manage, it’s always been my goal,” Byfield stated. “However, I try not to look too far ahead; I’m not in a position to make those decisions. I’ve enjoyed my role as first-team coach at Walsall, and whether as an assistant or interim manager, I find fulfillment in serving this club.”
Byfield’s connection to Walsall spans over 25 years, beginning when he transferred from Aston Villa in the summer of 2000. He famously scored the decisive goal in the League Two play-off final against Reading, aiding Walsall to a thrilling 3-2 victory.
After a spell with Rotherham, Byfield returned to Walsall for a second term in August 2009, netting 12 goals in 56 appearances. “This is Walsall, a club that means everything to me – it’s my football club,” he remarked. “I’m here to do the job I’ve been given until I’m informed otherwise.”
‘We need to change our fortunes and play without fear’
Byfield’s immediate goal is to rejuvenate Walsall’s play-off challenge as they approach the final 10 games of the season. A victory against Crewe could see them level on points with the seventh place. “I’m genuinely excited about this opportunity,” he noted. “We must focus on securing three points and regaining our momentum.”
“We have talented players; our task is to create a cohesive team. We need to halt the downward trend while fostering a positive mindset. It’s vital that I instill this in the team so they can play with confidence, apply pressure, and give it their all against Crewe,” he asserted. “Our ambition is promotion; I want the players to express themselves fully.”
“If our fans see us giving our utmost, they will support us wholeheartedly. We need to rekindle that connection with them.”