Brian Dutton backs Walsall's new technical chief
Brian Dutton has welcomed the appointment of Jamie Fullarton as Walsall’s new technical director, insisting the club has made the right call.
The former Crystal Palace man was announced in the new role ahead of the Saddlers’ 1-0 win over Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday night.
Fullarton has started immediately and will oversee the whole football department from the academy to first team, implementing the football philosophy and heading up recruitment.
Dutton said: “It’s a really positive appointment, Jamie has good experience and is very knowledgeable.
“The more great minds you can have around the football club, the more opportunities you’ll have for success.
“We welcome that appointment and I look forward to working with him.
“I’ve had a couple of conversations with him and he’s like-minded, very passionate and enthusiastic.
“I’m looking forward to that partnership and Walsall reaping the rewards.”
When it was announced that Walsall were creating this role, Dutton made a point that it was crucial to choose the right candidate.
When asked whether it is the correct appointment, Dutton added: “Yes, it is. It’s what the football club needs, building from the bottom up.
“We have to get hold of the youngsters in the academy and produce players.
“It goes all the way through the football club and it’s a welcome appointment, a really positive one.”
Fullarton’s previous experience points to developing youth, having worked as head of emerging talent at Palace and with several under-23 squads.
For Dutton, that is an essential part of the ongoing plan for the club.
He said: “I’m sure Jamie is of the same mindset as me, that every great football club should be built around youth.
“You should have a conveyor belt of talent running through the club. I’ve tried to lay those foundations and create a pathway in my short tenure and we’re reaping the rewards of it.
“Sam Perry, everyone can witness what an incredible talent he is. Alfie Bates, who is not getting the minutes at the minute, is another phenomenal talent.
“There’s a lot of guys waiting in the wings. The club is in a healthy place with young talent and I want to give them the opportunity.
“I’ll be looking to do that with Jamie’s assistance.”
