Fans Voice Frustration, Doubts Over Boss, and Hope for Better Recruitment

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A recent Express & Star Saddlers Survey has laid bare the feelings of Walsall fans after a rollercoaster 2024–25 season — and the results echo much of what the Trust has heard from members throughout the campaign.

🔴 Frustration at the Finish, But Pride Remains

58% of respondents said Walsall deserved to finish fourth, while 36% cited the 1–0 win away at Port Vale as their standout memory. The play-off semi-final victory over Chesterfield was another highlight (52%), yet the pain of falling short at Wembley clearly still lingers — with 31% listing that defeat as the low point of the season.

🧠 Fans Point to January as the Turning Point

A massive 97% of fans believe the Saddlers would’ve achieved automatic promotion if Nathan Lowe had stayed.

🧩 Doubts Over the Manager’s Future

In a stark finding, just 35% of fans believe Mat Sadler should remain in charge next season. While fans showed appreciation for the squad’s efforts and memorable wins, there’s clear concern about tactical decisions and leadership at key moments of the season.

📉 Recruitment and Contracts Under Fire

Supporters were clear: 75% agreed with the club’s decision to release Daniels, Earing and Johnson — but 56% felt that having 13 players out of contract by July was a key reason for the promotion collapse. Just 37% believe the club will get recruitment right this summer.

📢 Communication Still Needs Work

While 49% were satisfied with club hierarchy communication last season, 78% said CEO Ben Sadler was a positive appointment — offering a base of goodwill to build on.

💷 Value for Money and the Matchday Experience

Despite missing out on promotion, 63% said they are happy with their season ticket, though only 60% said they felt matchday trips to Bescot offered value for money. Just 40% rated fan day facilities as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

The Trust’s Take

These results are a vital barometer of fan feeling — and a timely reminder of the continued work needed across recruitment, communication, and leadership. There is no shortage of passion and belief in the club’s potential — but the gap between that belief and the decision-making structures remains a concern for many.

We encourage all Saddlers to get involved with the Trust this summer. These are exactly the types of issues we aim to reflect — constructively, firmly, and with the good of the club in mind.

👉 Join the Trust Today