Walsall's Dean Smith named as new Brentford boss

Walsall boss Dean Smith has been named as Brentford's new manager subject to contract. He will be joined by assistant, Richard O'Kelly.

The announcement comes just a month after Smith agreed a new 12-month rolling contract with the League One side.

But, in a statement, Walsall Football Club said he had requested assurances from the club that he would be "given the opportunity to speak to any interested parties regarding any future job opportunities should they arise."

Walsall Chairman Jeff Bonser said: "We are disappointed to lose Dean.

"He is the fourth longest serving manager in English Football and would have been at the helm for five years in January. We categorically did not want him to leave this football club and did all we could to keep him at the helm.

"He helped keep us in League One at the end of his first season and made gradual improvement throughout his time in charge; culminating in a first Wembley appearance earlier this year and an excellent start to the current campaign.

Walsall manager Dean Smith before the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Final at Wembley Credit: PA
Walsall fans show their support at the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Final against Bristol City at Wembley Credit: PA

"We thank him, and Richard O'Kelly, for their hard work and efforts.

"I am sure we will have a high number of applicants for the role and it is the job of myself and the Board of Directors to ensure that we make the right appointment.

"In the meantime John Ward, Jon Whitney and Neil Cutler will take temporary control of first team matters."