Experienced defender heads to Latics in first-team coach role...
THE SADDLERS have allowed experienced central defender, Dean Holden, to leave the club in order to take up the role of first-team coach at Oldham Athletic.The 35 year-old arrived at Banks’s Stadium in July 2012 and since then he has gone on to give the club sterling service both on the field and as Pro Development Coach.
It is a return to Boundary Park for Holden after playing over 120 times for The Latics early on in his career.
“Opportunities like this don’t come along that often, so we weren’t going to stand in his way,” said manager, Dean Smith. “During his time here he has showed what a fantastic professional he is.
“He’s been a great person to have around the place and has contributed much to us both on and off-the-field.
“I hope that he has enjoyed his first taste of coaching with us and that it stands him in good stead; he has certainly adapted well to it and commands the respect of everyone here.
“We thank him for his service and wish him well for the future in his new role.”
Holden replaces Paul Murray who was appointed manager of Hartlepool United earlier this month.
His career began with Bolton Wanderers before going on to serve the likes of The Latics, Peterborough United, Falkirk, Shrewsbury Town, Chesterfield and Rochdale, from where he joined The Saddlers.
Injuries have limited his outings for the club, but he has done well as part of the backroom team.
Everyone here at Walsall FC wishes him well for the future.