Walsall manager Mat Sadler anticipates the club’s partnership with Drogheda United will continue to grow stronger, building on the positive collaboration established so far.
Walsall’s owners, Trivela Group, acquired full ownership of Drogheda United in November 2022, initiating a multi-club ownership model. Since then, the relationship has facilitated player exchanges. Evan Weir joined Walsall from Drogheda last winter before returning to the Irish club on loan for the 2023 season. Similarly, Douglas James-Taylor has thrived on loan at Drogheda, scoring 13 goals, including one in their recent 2-0 FAI Cup final win over Derry City.
Ahead of Drogheda’s League of Ireland play-off against Bray Wanderers, Sadler expressed satisfaction with the collaboration under Trivela’s management. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, noting plans for further player exchanges between the clubs.
“Hopefully, there’s more to come,” Sadler remarked. “We’ll see young players from both sides transitioning between clubs, and the links will only grow stronger. I have regular discussions with Drogheda manager Kevin Doherty, and there’s a good relationship across the board.”
Walsall co-chairman Ben Boycott previously stated that the partnership aims to benefit both clubs equally. Sadler reinforced this sentiment, suggesting that further collaborations, including coaching synergies, could enhance the clubs’ operations.
He also highlighted the unique opportunity presented by the multi-club model, likening it to Manchester City’s successful global setup. Sadler believes the relationship provides valuable development opportunities for players on the verge of breaking through.
“This is a rare chance for us to use these connections,” he said. “It’s a great pathway for players from both sides to gain experience and for the clubs to grow together.”
