Dean to stay for the rest of the season

Reporter: Matthew Chambers
Date published: 17 March 2015


Caretaker boss Dean Holden is to remain Athletic manager for the final 11 games of the season.

Holden will be assisted by long-serving Academy manager Tony Philliskirk. Senior player Adam Lockwood will continue to support them.

Chief Executive Neil Joy said: "It has been a learning curve for Dean over the past few weeks and involving Tony provides the added support Dean needs to have the best chance of succeeding.

"Everyone at the club has been impressed with Dean’s attitude and approach, especially given the crippling injury list he has faced."

Holden said: “I'm delighted to accept the role of manager of this fantastic football club until the end of the season. I'm also pleased Tony will be alongside me, to add his experience and knowledge.

"I now ask all supporters to get behind the club for the remaining 11 games - including tonight's game against MK Dons. I firmly believe we have the capabilities of reaching the play-offs and with your support, which has been excellent all season, we feel we can reach our targets."

Philliskirk said: "I was delighted to help out. Everyone knows the affiliation and love I have for the club and I'll do anything to assist. I’ll still be hands on with the academy, but I'll be around to offer support to Dean and Adam for what is an exciting opportunity for them. “

If Holden impresses sufficiently between now and the summer he can only increase his chances of

keeping the role for the long-term. He is now the eighth permanent manager since current chairman Simon Corney arrived at the club 11 years ago.