Dean Holden settling in well at Walsall

The 36-year-old, who played 34 games for the Saddlers between 2012 and 2014, rejoined the club's back-room staff last week after previously working as a development coach under Dean Smith.

Holden was snapped up by Whitney after leaving his role as assistant boss of Oldham, where he worked alongside former Birmingham City midfielder David Dunn.

And Walsall's acting chief is delighted to have added him to his coaching ranks, which includes the experienced John Ward and goalkeeping expert Neil Cutler.

Whitney said: "I was short of a coach and, once I knew Dean was available, he was the perfect fit.

"John Ward spends a lot of time with the young players. Neil Cutler is with the goalkeepers and I'm doing a lot of the preparation work.

"My voice, I'm sure the players will tell you, sometimes you can get sick of it so I needed another voice with the coaching.

"Dean can do that. He adds another string to our bow for our push for promotion. He has got a tremendous drive which I recognised when I saw him playing.

"And he's enthusiastic. His personality has already started to flow over to the players so it's a great addition for us."

Whitney and his trio of coaches made the long journey to Southend last night to watch Phil Brown's side in action against Saturday's opponents Sheffield United.

And he revealed Holden's past connections with the club and the fact he knew the majority of the players was key his appointment.

Whitney added: "It was paramount that he knew the club, the way it works and the majority of the players.

"I have known Dean for a a long time and he has got the same philosophy I have got. He is a very stable person on and off the pitch and a great person to work with."

Meanwhile, Walsall have confirmed Middlesbrough midfielder Bryn Morris has ended his loan spell with the club.