Ex Nottingham Forest manager linked with Walsall job

Lost in the crowd

David Platt was in the Banks's Family Stand watching the Walsall Vs Scunthorpe game in disguise. Friends of the former England International have confirmed his under cover presence at the League One fixture. The chosen costume - a wolly hat and scarf!! - How did we not see through that one!?

Various newspapers such as the Daily Mail and the Express and Star have also linked the former Aston Villa star with the vacant managers job.

Another day, another rumour to add to the front runners. Others to be linked in the press include Chris Nicholl, John Gregory and a trio of former Liverpool players.

Viila Park

After being released by Manchester United early in his career Platt joined Crewe. A move to Aston Villa then followed, something that would prove to be the big turning point in his playing career. He earnt a place in the World Cup 90 squad that went to Italy. He scored the terrific and now famous goal against Belguim on the way to a semi-final exit.

His performances got the headlines and Bari took him to Italy. Spells with Sampdoria and Juventus later followed, before a return to England with Arsenal.

David Platt finished his career early, he was eager to get into coaching. He spent time travelling the world to gain experience from some of the top managers and club set ups. His break into management came with Notttingham Forest.

Unhappy days

Not a successful stewardship is probably the nicest way to describe his time there. Many Forest fans blame their current plight on the Platt era. Forest wasted millions on signings that gave minimal return.

When Platt left Forest, Sven Goran Erikson took over as England manager. Platt played under Sven at Sampdoria and Sven wasted no time in installing David as the under 21 coach. Platt was replaced by Peter Taylor when England failed to reach the Under 21s tournament.

Since then David has been looking for a route back into football. He is a more experienced manager since his Forest days but his appointment would cause a mixed reaction from Walsall fans. The next management appointment at Walsall FC is a big one. The fans must be re-united after the Merson fall out. By the appointment of Platt i cannot see this happening.