Former Chester captain Ian Sharps has left his role as first-team coach with Walsall.

Saddlers manager Dean Keates, who left Wrexham in March to take up the post, is understood to want to bring in his own backroom staff with Sharps making way.

Andy Davies, who was assistant to Keates at The Racecourse and took over as manager when Keates left, could now head to Walsall.

The 37-year-old has been in the frame for the managerial vacancy at Chester but it is understood the Blues cooled their interest following initial interviews.

Sharps played for Chester in 2015-16 and was subsequently appointed assistant manager to Jon McCarthy, but left in November 2016 to take up the first-team coaching role with Walsall.

A statement released by Walsall said: "Walsall Football Club can confirm that First-Team Coach Ian Sharps has left the club.

"The 37-year-old former Rotherham, Shrewsbury and Burton defender joined the Saddlers in November 2016 after leaving Chester, where he served as assistant manager.

"He took caretaker charge following Jon Whitney’s departure in March and worked alongside manager Dean Keates, playing an important role, as we retained our League One status.

"We would like to thank Ian for all his hard work and dedication during his time with the club and wish him well for the future."