James Clarke believes Walsall will have the right spirit

Manager Clarke was appointed Saddlers boss last month after agreeing a three-year deal at the Banks’s Stadium.

The 41-year-old, who has previously managed Bristol Rovers and Salisbury, has already won four promotions in his managerial career. And defender Clarke – who the boss had at both his previous clubs – believes the manager’s ability to forge an excellent team spirit has been key to that success.

“The gaffer knows how to build a changing room,” he said.

“It’s massive to be in a positive dressing room. And that is what the gaffer builds, he knows how to be successful.

“He gets hungry lads in. That is the half the battle. You have to sign lads who are hungry still, who want to do well.

“I believe that is why he has done so well.

“I’ve been at clubs with him in the past where he didn’t have the best budget but he still managed to build a winning team.”

With Walsall having been relegated last year, James Clarke admits a push for promotion has to be the aim for the 2019/20 campaign.

“I’ve had one season in League Two before and I was lucky enough to be part of the gaffer’s side that got out of it,” he continued.

“That is now the aim again.

“Obviously it was a disappointing season for the club last year.

“Now it’s about being positive, playing on the front foot and getting the club back where it belongs.

“We want to kick of the new season well.

“It’s a new era and hopefully it will be a positive season.”

Meanwhile, Walsall are today expected to unveil their new kit for the 2019/20 campaign.

The home shirt is understood to be red with a white trim.

Made by Italian firm Errea, it also features the Black County flag inside the collar.