Barrow AFC's fellow strugglers Walsall have appointed ex-Newport boss Michael Flynn as their new head coach - a move which has seen ex-Bluebirds coach Neil McDonald leave the club.

Flynn is the Saddlers' choice to lead them away from relegation trouble in League Two.

He emerged as Walsall's pick after last week week's sacking of Matt Taylor, and has signed a deal until 2024.

Taylor's assistant - former Barrow coach McDonald who was at Holker Street under Rob Kelly last season - had been in caretaker charge and led Walsall to a 1-0 win over Tranmere Rovers on Saturday.

But he has now left the Banks's Stadium with Flynn set to bring in his own No2.

The Mail: Michael Flynn: Former Newport boss has joined Walsall (photo: PA)Michael Flynn: Former Newport boss has joined Walsall (photo: PA)

Walsall sit 18th in the table, two places and a point above Barrow, who host the Saddlers on March 5.

Flynn, who came close to leading Newport to promotion via the play-offs having saved the Exiles from relegation in his four-and-a-half tenure in south Wales, said he was "excited to get going."

Chairman Leigh Pomlett added: “Michael's experience having managed at this level of football will be invaluable and I now expect us to stabilise and climb the table.”

Confirming McDonald's departure, Walsall said: "We would like to thank Neil for his efforts during his time at the Banks’s Stadium and wish him well for the future.

"An announcement on a replacement for Neil will be made in due course."