Dean Holden thanks Walsall fans following Bristol City move
Dean Holden has thanked Walsall's fans for their "fantastic support" after leaving the club to become assistant manager at Bristol City.
The 37-year-old, who played for the Saddlers between 2012 and 2014, returned to the Banks's Stadium in March after being appointed first team coach to boss Jon Whitney.
But on Tuesday, Bristol City made an official approach for Holden's services with Walsall agreeing a compensation package to allow him to move to Ashton Gate.
And while the former defender is hugely excited by the challenge ahead, he admits it's was very difficult to leave Walsall.
"It was a big decision and a tough decision to leave," Holden said.
"I can't thank Walsall enough for everything they have done for me, both in my playing career and my coaching career.
"The fans have always given both my family and I such fantastic support.
"In my personal life and in football they have always been great and as a family we really appreciate it.
"Since returning to the club in March, I've loved going into work every day.
"The job satisfaction has been great and I've enjoyed working with the gaffer, the players, the coaching staff and everyone else who works at the club.
"But I just felt this was the right move for me. I got a feel for it straight away and I feel the time is right to test myself in the Championship."
Holden had a taste of English football's second tier while a player with Bolton Wanderers.
But after breaking his leg, he spent the majority of his career in League One, League Two or in Scotland.
"I played about 20 games at that level but after breaking my leg I never quite managed to get back there," he continued.
"It's a fantastic league and my gut instinct when Bristol City made their approach was this is a huge opportunity at a really ambitious club.
"I am very ambitious and I make no apologies for that. But I hope Walsall's fans will understand and accept the decision.
"It's sad to leave because I have got some fantastic friends there and a great relationship with the supporters.
"Now I'll be watching on as a fan and trying to get back to the Banks's whenever I can because the potential of the team is huge."
