Player-coach Mark Kinsella is to quit Walsall, so he can join the backroom team at Premiership strugglers Charlton.

The 34-year-old has scored two goals in 45 appearances for the Saddlers, who currently top the Coca-Cola League Two table and are unbeaten in 12 league games following Tuesday night's hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bury.

But, in addition to his playing duties, Kinsella has spent the last 18 months as reserve-team manager and first-team coach at the Bescot.

His professional career began at Colchester in 1989 before a transfer to Charlton, with whom he made 226 appearances, ahead of moves to Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Walsall.

Now the former Republic of Ireland international is poised to join Addicks head coach Les Reed and assistant Mark Robson from Monday.

Walsall chairman Jeff Bonser said: "There has been an agreement between ourselves and Mark that, if an opportunity came along for him to join a Premier League club, we would not stand in his way should he wish to explore that opportunity.

"Charlton approached the club earlier this week in order to gain permission to speak to Mark and, in line with our agreement, permission was granted.

"Talks have been held between Charlton and Mark and it is my understanding that terms have been agreed.

"We explained to Charlton that Mark was an important part of our plans but, at the same time, we could not stand in his way.

"We are grateful to them that, despite his imminent departure, they were prepared to allow him to play at Bury yesterday evening and, should he be selected, against Swindon this coming Saturday.

"We expect Mark to commence with his duties at The Valley next week and wish him all the very best.

"A compensation package has been agreed with Charlton and this will remain confidential between the two clubs."