The 2001-02 campaign was a season of dramatic mid-season upheaval and ultimate survival for Walsall, as The Saddlers, newly promoted, secured a crucial 18th-place finish in the competitive First Division. The year was defined by a major managerial change in January, with Ray Graydon departing after a difficult start, which paved the way for the arrival of Colin Lee. Lee, though initially polarizing, proved a success, improving the team's style and making vital signings to arrest the slide. Leading the attack was the Portuguese forward Jorge Leitão, whose 8 league goals anchored a hard-fought campaign that saw relegation dramatically avoided thanks to crucial away victories. It was a turbulent yet defining year that ensured the club successfully retained its top-flight status.