Fans call on Walsall's owners to explain long-term vision after promotion heartache

In a statement, the Walsall Football Supporters’ Trust claimed the Saddlers stunning collapse over the second half of the season could not be blamed on “footballing issues alone” and urged the club’s US-based ownership group, Trivela, to provide more transparency over its structure.

Walsall appeared assured of promotion when they sat top of League Two in January, 15 points clear of fourth place.

But just three wins from 21 matches saw them fall out of the automatic spots, before they were beaten by Wimbledon at Wembley in Monday’s play-off final.

The Trust said the “sharpness and severity” of the downturn had brought “longstanding questions around ownership and governance into sharper focus”.

Their statement added: “It would be disingenuous to attribute such a dramatic decline since January to footballing issues alone.”

Trivela, founded by Ben Boycott and Ken Polk, purchased a majority stake in the Saddlers three years ago and has since gone on to invest in clubs in Ireland, Togo and Denmark. Boycott has been co-chairman of the Saddlers since 2022.

While the Trust praised Trivela for its work engaging with supporters, it said “enhanced transparency” over the group’s ultimate ownership would “go a long way in reinforcing trust and credibility”.

In the statement, the Trust questioned whether “cost containment has been prioritised over competitive ambition” after a January window which saw the Saddlers lose top scorer Nathan Lowe, following his recall by parent club Stoke.

While calling for a “transparent review” of where the season went wrong and a “clear and measurable roadmap” for promotion next term, the Trust statement also asked for: “A formal statement from Trivela Group on ownership structure and strategic intentions for Walsall FC in its portfolio.”

Describing the requests as “appropriate and necessary” the statement concludes: “This summer represents a pivotal opportunity to reset, rebuild, and realign. 

“The core pillars are in place — a passionate and loyal fanbase, dedicated club staff, and deep-rooted goodwill within the community. 

“What is now required is clear leadership, strategic direction, and a renewed sense of shared ambition.”