LEAGUE Lee Grant, the former assistant manager of Ipswich Town, has been named the new head coach of two Walsall teams.
The 43-year-old, who had a great run as Kieran McKenna’s assistant manager at Ipswich, has signed a three-year deal with the Saddlers.
Grant, a former manager of Huddersfield Town, takes over for Mat Sadler, who left the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium in March.
I’m really happy and proud to be the new Head Coach of Walsall Football Club, Grant stated to the Walsall website.
“It’s been a long process, one that’s been ongoing for the past few weeks, and the conversations I’ve had with the club’s hierarchy have focused on aligning our goals for the club’s future and sharing the vision throughout the board, which has made me very happy.
I’ve been fortunate to have the path that I’ve had. I’ve worked alongside some of the best pros in the business during my long playing career, and I’ve gained valuable experience and exposure in three distinct leagues with Ipswich Town and Huddersfield Town, respectively. These experiences have helped me become the coach that I am now.
My ideas about it are solid, and the teams I’ve worked with have scored a lot of goals. I’m quite thrilled to get started, help the football team make progress, and I’m very much looking forward to get to work, even though it’s going to be a hectic time for me and the club.
Grant, a former goalkeeper with over 500 professional games under his belt, began his first managerial stint at Huddersfield in May 2025.
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Before then, he was instrumental in Ipswich’s coaching team as they ascended to the Premier League following two straight promotions.
Lee is a welcome addition to Walsall Football Club, said Stewart Mairs, the team’s head of football.
“We have talked to a number of excellent candidates during the extremely comprehensive recruitment process for our new Men’s Head Coach.
“From the outset, we were very clear on the type of leader we wanted to bring to the football club — someone capable of driving standards, developing the group, and helping us move the club forward.
“Lee showed a tremendous appetite and desire to be a part of this football club throughout the entire procedure.
This summer, the ex-Colchester United loan pair will have plenty of options.
“He has a great understanding of the modern game, is very articulate and detail-oriented, but just as importantly, he is a wonderful guy.
“It’s our responsibility to help him and make the most of his talents.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lee and his family to the club, and we anticipate collaborating with him in the coming years to accomplish our shared objectives. “
