Dean Holden named as new Bristol City head coach

Dean Holden named as new Bristol City head coach

Posted on: 11 Aug 2020

Holden becomes Bristol City's permanent manager following the departure of Lee Johnson.

 

Former Oldham Athletic boss Dean Holden has been officially unveiled as the new Head Coach of Bristol City, following a thorough selection process that saw an array of top managers linked with the job. 

 

The 40-year-old was previously assistant to Lee Johnson, before taking over as interim coach for the remainder of the 2019/20 season.

 

Having taken eight points from his five games in charge of The Robins to close the season, Holden has now signed on a permanent basis and will be assisted by coaches Keith Downing and Paul Simpson.

Dean Holden unveiled as new Bristol City Head Coach.

In response to another disappointing end to a Championship campaign that saw the club fall out of the race for the playoff places, Lee Johnson was dismissed as City Head Coach with five games of the season to play.

 

In four-and-a-half years at Ashton Gate Stadium, Johnson oversaw some memorable cup ties and steadied the ship to establish The Robins in the top half of the Championship.

 

Despite showing signs of real progress, the playoffs always appeared to be a step too far for Johnson's forward-thinking City side, and he was officially relieved of his duties in early July after a defeat to Cardiff City.

 

Following Johnson's dismissal, rumours quickly spread and saw some huge names linked with the City job, including former players Steven Gerrard and John Terry as well as experienced Premier League manager Chris Hughton.

 

 

After weeks of deliberation, the board have opted with Holden, with City Chief Executive, Mark Ashton, revealing he's "delighted" with the news.

 

"We undertook a rigorous recruitment process," he said, "and while that rightly took time because of how important it was, we believe we have made the correct decisions about the head coach and the coaching structure.”

 

Speaking on his appointment as Head Coach, Holden said: “I am honoured to take on the role - it’s a very proud moment for me and my family.

 

“I want to say we will go into every game wanting to win with attacking and exciting football. That’s what fans want. I know what it’s like to be a supporter - I love that our supporters care and are so passionate.

 

“What you see is what you get with me. I’ll be honest with the players, staff and the fans and I’ll graft as hard as I can to bring success to this football club.”

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Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.