Brian Dutton inspired by former Walsall boss Dean Smith
Brian Dutton says Walsall’s history of giving coaches an opportunity fills him with confidence – as he looks up to the job Dean Smith did at the Banks’s Stadium.
The current Villa boss was head of youth at Walsall until he took over as manager in 2011.
After a tricky start to life as boss he had a successful spell in charge until leaving for Brentford in 2015 and Dutton uses him as an example of why he is sticking to his principles.
“Dean Smith gives me such confidence,” Dutton said.
“A guy like that, who started at Walsall. They have their ideas, tried to implement them and went 15 or 16 games without a win.
“The mental fortitude from them to come through it, stick to their beliefs and not wilt. You can see the success they’ve had from that – the strength of character is phenomenal. They’re really talented football coaches and it gives me a lot of confidence. If I fail, as long as my conscience is clear and I’ve done the best for Walsall football club, then I’ll be fine.”
