Dean Holden: Walsall eager to improve

First-team coach Dean Holden says Walsall can build a better squad next season.

The 36-year-old, who returned to the Bank's backroom staff in March, has now been given a permanent position as assistant to Jon Whitney, the Saddlers' new manager.

And he is confident the club can continue to build after a season which saw them miss out on automatic promotion from League One by a point.

"We're all hungry for success and it's a great working environment that's been created here," he said.

"That's why Walsall are different to any other club. Yes, development is key but we know we have to win football matches as well.

"I'm already getting excited for the fixtures to come out in less than three weeks time."

An uncertain summer would appear to await, with several key members of the team out of contract, while the Saddlers are also braced to fend off bids for top scorer Tom Bradshaw.

Yet Holden is confident the squad can be improved, though he admits the club will have to be 'clever' with their recruitment.

"We had a great season last year and unfortunately it just unravelled at the end," he said. "But we're working hard to improve our squad.

"We've got to be clever in recruitment. Hopefully the players we've offered contracts to will stay and we can bring a few in as well.

"But we have to remember that the club have a great reputation for developing young players. It's our big thing and it's something I'm keen on as well."

Holden previously spent two years as a player with the club and was also development squad coach before leaving for a coaching role at Oldham in November 2014.

He went on: "I really enjoyed my time here last season and was welcomed back by the fans, the players and I think most importantly the backroom staff.

"That was the main aspect that stuck with me. The way the staff are all on board and have a real work ethic. I'm very grateful to the chairman and the board."