Walsall will face a side managed by a familiar face next season as the Saddlers' League Two rivals Swindon Town have announced the appointment of Michael Flynn as their new boss ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.Penning a two-year deal, Flynn will be joined in Swindon by Wayne Hatswell as the duo gets back into the beautiful game within just a few short weeks of their Walsall departure.
In a lengthy statement, released via Swindon Town's official website, Robinso owner Clem Morfuni welcomed Michael and Wayne to the club, he said; “As we bring the curtain down on the 2022/23 EFL Sky Bet League Two season and gear up for our final fixture here at the County Ground against Crawley today, we’d like to provide an update on the appointment of our next manager.
"We are delighted to announce Michael Flynn has agreed a deal with the club to take the role and lead us forward, signing a two-year contract.
"This was a thorough and fast-moving process as we had very specific requirements for this role, and Michael quickly became the leading candidate.
"We wanted to appoint a manager who is experienced at League Two level, and Michael’s knowledge of the current squad, the division itself and potential new recruits is very comprehensive and impressive.
"He has a record of recruiting well and has already identified areas he wishes to strengthen with a list of targets, and he will have our full support as he rebuilds the squad.
"Flynn joins Swindon having managed over 300 games at League Two level and has twice led sides to a playoff final.
"Throughout his managerial career he’s also had great success in cup competitions, which includes reaching the FA Cup Fifth Round with Newport.
"If you look at his record in terms of win percentage, league finishes, cup runs and player sales with extremely limited resources, we feel he has done an excellent job on a consistent basis.
"He has the highest qualifications in the game as a holder of a UEFA Pro Licence with a clear identity of how he wants to play, along with a track record of developing and improving players, alongside his extensive contacts, knowledge, and enthusiasm, we’re hoping he can add promotion with us to his CV.
"We feel we have the nucleus of a good young squad here, and by adding experience and leadership, we believe we can really challenge for promotion next season.
"We are convinced Michael is the right man to lead us and give us the best chance of achieving our goal, so please get behind him and the team next season and carry on supporting our great club, as you have since the day I arrived and a for a long time prior.
"Let’s win promotion and push our great club closer to where it should be, COYR!”