Former Bristol Rovers manager Darrell Clarke says he can't wait to get started after being confirmed as the new boss of League Two Walsall on a three-year deal.
Clarke had been out of work since leaving Rovers last December and was linked with a host of jobs across the Football League including Yeovil, Southend and Scunthorpe.
The 41-year-old was interviewed for the post at the recently-relegated club along with former Rochdale boss Keith Hill and was confirmed as Dean Keates' successor on Friday morning.
"I can’t wait to get started,” Clarke, who took charge of 246 games for Rovers over four-and-a-half years, said. "I have spoken with members of the board on a number of occasions and this is a project I am really looking forward to.
"I am excited by the challenge that lies ahead. This is a great club and I can’t wait to get my teeth into the task at hand.
"The club have had a couple of disappointing seasons and we now find ourselves in League Two.
"I want to give these brilliant fans something to shout about, put a smile on their faces and give them a team that will give their all for the club and the badge.
"I like my teams to be on the front foot and play attractive, attacking football with the ability to adapt to different scenarios.
"I know all about the division we are in, I’ve had success at League Two level before and I want to bring the good times back.
"I will work tirelessly to achieve our shared goals."
Clarke has a strong link with the Saddlers as Professional Development coach John Ward was the man he replaced at the Mem in 2014.
The 41-year-old served as Ward's assistant before the former Gas favourite moved upstairs and assumed a brief role as Director of Football with Clarke taking over the top job.
However, Ward last just 41 days in his new role and left Rovers following their relegation from the Football League with Clarke then leading the Gas back up the football pyramid with back-to-back promotions from the Conference Premier and League Two.
Unfortunately Clarke's time at the Mem came to a dificult as he left the Gas in December with Rovers in relegation trouble and frustration over the lack of development regarding the club's proposed new stadium and training ground.
"Darrell arrives with an excellent track record,” added Walsall chief executive Stefan Gamble.
"He’s young and hungry but, at the same time, he has over 400 games under his belt as a manager. That is phenomenal for someone who is still so young.
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"He has a clear vision for the football club that is shared by the board and I’m sure he will be well received by our supporters.
"We are all looking forward to working with Darrell in what I am sure will be an exciting chapter for Walsall Football Club."
Walsall have been without a permanent manager since sacking Keates on April 6 with the Saddlers third from bottom in League One.
Caretaker manager Martin O'Connor was unable to preserve the club's League One status, or improve their league position, winning just one of his matches in charge as they finished three points from safety.
On Thursday, Ian Holloway admitted he was interested in the job at the Bescot Stadium saying he is looking for a "project" but the club turned their focus to Clarke.
