By Paul Holmes
August 1 2002

Dave Merrington has quit as assistant manager at Walsall for personal reasons. Former Southampton manager, Merrington, is one of the most respected figures in the game and his departure will come as a big blow to the Bescot fans.

A statement that was released on the clubs official website said: "The club are extremely disappointed to have lost his services so near to the start of the season."

Youth team coach Mick Halsall will take over on a temporray basis until boss Colin Lee can find a permanent replacement.