Holden books in

ATHLETIC legend Rick Holden gave his verdict on the club’s season so far when he popped in to the Chronicle offices to sign copies of his autobiography.

Supporters flocked to the Chron to buy ‘It’s a Minging Life’ and chat to Holden, who spent a combined total of six years at Boundary Park over two spells.

The fans’ favourite of the glory years in the Premier League still keeps a close eye on Athletic’s progress and has been impressed by the start Paul Dickov has made to his managerial career.

“I watch them now and again and always keep an eye out for their results,” said Holden.

“They are doing well at the moment, keeping the pressure on teams at the right end of the table.

“It is an interesting set-up now, with Paul occasionally appearing in the team and also learning the ropes as a manager at the same time.

“It is a difficult job but he seems to be doing very well so far. Hopefully, they keep it up.”

Holden runs his own physiotherapy firm in the Isle of Man, having stepped down from the role of manager at Manx outfit Peel FC, to dedicate more time to the business.

But the ex-wing wizard can’t help but miss the buzz he got from playing the game, despite the title of his book.

He said: “Simply playing the game was always the dream. It is every young boy’s dream isn’t it?

“I miss it a lot but I still get to kick a ball around with my children.

“Alexander, my 14-year-old son, has the potential to make a career out of football, although I am not pushing him to do so.”