Sean O'Driscoll sacked: It's time for a change at Walsall

The 58-year-old, who only replaced Dean Smith in December, was surprisingly relieved of his duties by the Saddlers board yesterday following the 3-1 home loss to Barnsley.

That result extended Walsall's winless run to six matches, in a campaign which fans believe could be their best chance in years to win promotion to the Championship. In total, O'Driscoll took charge of 16 Walsall games, winning six, drawing five and losing five.

But while results in recent weeks have been disappointing, the Express & Star understands it was O'Driscoll's relationship with the players and club staff that led to his departure.

Fans, who had made their feelings towards O'Driscoll known in the defeat against the Tykes, responded to the news positively.

In our poll of more than 300 supporters, a total of 75 per cent agreed Walsall's board had made the correct decision.

"I'm really impressed that the board have acted this quick," said fan Craig Zece.

"Make or break point of the season, glad the club have made such a big statement," added Liam Arrowsmith.

"Let's hope the damage caused is repairable."

Other fans were also pleased to see the back of the former Doncaster Rovers and Nottingham Forest manager.

Mark Banks said: "From the outside it's easy to criticise us for sacking O'Driscoll – from the inside it was the right decision. He lost the dressing room and fans."

Mike Holden added: "No doubt in my mind Walsall have made the right decision. O'Driscoll dour and stubborn. Players drained of inspiration."

Former Saddlers assistant manager and captain Martin O'Connor also seemed to back the decision.

"Not surprised at the situation at Walsall," he tweeted. "He had lost the momentum."

One of the reasons O'Driscoll struggled to build a relationship with Saddlers fans was his reluctance to pick talented starlet Rico Henry.

The 18-year-old wowed supporters with his performances in the first half of season, with his form prompting Premier League giants Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham to send scouts to watch him.

But under O'Driscoll, the youngster made just six starts with half of those coming in an unfamiliar position on the left wing.

O'Driscoll was also criticised for his lack of attacking ambition, with Walsall having scored just three times in their last six games.

Now attentions turn to who will replace the Wolverhampton-born manager.

Following the departure of Smith, Walsall had three games under the caretaker management team of Jon Whitney, Neil Cutler and former Bristol Rovers, Cheltenham and Colchester boss John Ward.

They are now expected to be in charge for Saturday's trip to Chesterfield and could be given the reins until the end of the season.

Other names being touted by bookmakers include Mansfield boss Adam Murray, ex-Swindon manager Mark Cooper and the out-of-work Steve Clarke who recently left Reading.