Walsall have made Chris Hutchings their new manager, in succession to Jimmy Mullen.

The former Bradford and Wigan boss, 51, has signed an 18-month contract. Ex-Saddlers skipper Martin O'Connor will be his assistant.

Walsall Chairman Jeff Bonser told the club's official website, "I am delighted to have both Chris and Martin on board."

"I am very excited by this double appointment. Both men have great passion for the game and are very fresh, which is excatly what we need.

"It was important to bring in people with leadership qualities and both Chris and Martin have this in abundance."

"It's a great little club," Hutchings told Sky Sports News.

"We have got some good players here, some experienced players, and some good youth team players as well. If we can get that blend right, which I'm sure we will do, we'll get up that table."