The first-team is currently managerless following Saturday afternoon's disappointing defeat to ten-man Oxford United, a result which was the Red's fifth defeat in a row and saw them fall further behind some of their relegation rivals in the process.
Despite many names already being linked with the club it has now been confirmed that first-team coach Martin O'Connor has been installed as Caretaker boss with Keates' former assistant Andy Davies, goalkeeping coach Andy Davies, and development coach John Ward all tasked with supporting the former midfielder.
Released via their official website, the club confirms; Walsall Football Club can today confirm that Martin O’Connor will take temporary charge of first-team affairs until the end of the season.
The 51 year-old will be assisted by John Ward, Andy Davies and Michael Oakes. The Saddlers have five games left of the League One season and currently occupy 22nd position in the table, just one point from safety.
With fixtures against three of our relegation rivals in the coming weeks, we urge our supporters to get behind Martin and the team at this crucial time.