Coach Mark Bradley backed to be success at Walsall

The retired defender, who made 104 appearances for the Saddlers between 2005 and 2010, was named as the club's strength and conditioning coach earlier this month.

Bradley saw his playing career come to an end when he suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury while playing for Rotherham in 2004.

That lead to him pursuing a career and obtaining a degree in sports science.

And Whitney says the former Welsh international has the right personality to inspire Walsall's players.

"Mark had to retire through injury at a young age but he can develop with us and I’m sure the players will enjoy his infectious personality," the boss said.

"Over my playing career I had some physios and strength and conditioning coaches who didn’t really practice what they preach and didn’t really inspire me.

"I was left to my own devices which isn’t really a bad thing.

"But in the modern game we need somebody to push these players and Mark will do that.

"He reached the pinnacle of his career playing for the Welsh team right through the age groups, a full international.

"It’s a learning curve for him but he’s got an abundance of energy and enthusiasm so that’s why I brought him in."

Whitney believes Bradley has all the traits needed to be a success in his new role.

"I look for what I call keystone members of staff - staff that lead by example," the boss added.

"I want people who are really solid and stable on and off the pitch and Mark comes into that.

"I know Mark from when he had a few injuries here when he was a player, so I know he’s one of the best in the gym.

"When his name came up I was really interested in speaking to him. "