Leigh Pomlett: We need 5,000 Walsall fans at Banks’s

The businessman took over ownership of the Saddlers in the summer, taking over from Jeff Bonser after 28 years.

In a press conference after his takeover Pomlett urged fans to return to the Banks's Stadium, - resulting in 450 extra season tickets being bought.

Now, he has set a target of 5,000 fans at every game to help the team on the pitch, but also improve the club's finances.

"I was very pleased with the support we got even though we lost against Salford, the fans response to that game was excellent," he said.

"I'll keep saying it every time I get the opportunity, Walsall football club becomes a lot different when you've got 5,000 fans.

"Financially it makes a huge difference, anything north of 5,000 is phenomenal for us and it's really important that we get that message out.

"With 3,000 it's tough to run a football club, 5,000 makes life easier.

"I enjoy encouraging them to come along, there was around 800 going to Leyton Orient, which is great for Leyton Orient and great for the fans and I want them to go don't get me wrong, but where it matters to me and Walsall is at home, that's where it really impacts.

"I'll keep mentioning it and I'll say it again, 5,000 please and then things become possible."

Another of Pomlett's targets when he took over was to improve the communication between the board and the fans throughout the season.

Under the reign of Bonser the relationship between fans and the ownership became strained, with supporters often targeting their frustration at the board.

A large section of supporters,however, have praised the hierarchy's work at improving that this season, with several board members engaging in fan forums and meetings.

"I'm very pleased, the fans forum was great fun, I'm talking to the fans a lot," Pomlett said.

"I've encouraged the whole of the team to be more engaging, from the executive board to the non-executive board to be more engaged with the fans and enjoy doing so.

"Whether we win or lose I go into the Bonser suite and I'll continue to do it, I won't shy away from that, I think it's important and I enjoy it.

"I'm pleased with the progress."