Ian Sharps: Walsall bring in Chester assistant manager as new first team coach

Sharps made 24 appearances for Burton Albion in their League Two title triumph in 2014

Ian Sharps has left National League side Chester to become first-team coach under Jon Whitney at Walsall.

The 36-year-old former Tranmere Rovers, Rotherham United, Shrewsbury Town, Burton Albion, AFC Telford United and Chester centre-half only finished playing at the end of last season.

But, although still registered as a player, he has been assistant manager since April to Jon McCarthy at Chester.

Sharps replaces Dean Holden, who left to join Bristol City last week.

Warrington-born Sharps spent time last season on the Walsall staff in a part-time coaching capacity.

He will help form a new Saddlers backroom team along with manager Whitney and goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler.

Walsall, play-off semi finalists last season, currently stand 14th in League One.

He leaves a Chester side lying 12th in the National League following Saturday's 2-2 comeback draw at Sharps' old club Tranmere.