As was widely expected, Paul Merson was appointed player manager at Bescot on a permanent basis today. The former England midfielder then outlined his plans for next year, including a move for his former Villa team mate Michael Standing. The 23 year old central midfielder is available for free after cash strapped Bradford were forced to make all their players available for transfer. “I have worked with him before at Aston Villa and he’s someone I rate very highly”. said Merse, who also hopes to persuade Jimmy Walker to stay a Saddler. Merse, however, was forced to admit that Player of the Year Paul Ritchie has played his last game for the club.
“We’ve given five lads from the youth team (Ryan Willetts, Julian Bennett, Nathan Jameson, Daryl Taylor and Taiwo Atieno) professional contracts for next season, as well as agreeing a new deal with Ian Roper and bringing Gary Birch back from his loan spell at Barnsley. I am also hoping that James Walker and Neil Emblen will sign new contracts to give us a good blend of youth and experience in our squad.” said our new manager. Merson will also bring in a “young and enthusiastic” assistant manager, whilst Simon Osborn will take up a player coaching role.

Paul Merson today announced a mini clear out at Bescot, releasing nine players. Youngsters Gavin Caines and Nick Smith have both failed to make the grade at Bescot, as has Mario Lopez Soler - a young Spaniard who was amongst the goals for last season’s successful reserve side. Also gone are Craig Burley, Jermaine McSporran and Lee Bradbury. All three were signed by Colin Lee as the former Saddlers boss attempted - unsuccessfully - to stave off relegation. Burley, in particular, didn’t even look match fit when he was able to turn out and his release is no surprise. The writing was on the wall for keeper Andy Petterson when he let in six on his debut and for winger Pedro Matias, who has been on loan at Blackpool. Matt Carbon is the ninth Saddler to be let go.
Jorge Leitao, Neil Emblen, Mark Wright, Kris Taylor, Darren Bazeley, James Walker, Gary Birch, Aaron Kerr and Andy Bishop are discussing new contracts. Ian Roper has already signed and will definitely feature next year alongside Matty Fryatt, Zigor Aranalde, Steve Corica, Darren Wrack, Simon Osborn and Merson. Youth team keeper Dean Coleman has been offered non-contract terms.