Dudley Town boss Dean Whitehouse out to upset old club Tividale

Whitehouse’s first league game in charge of the Robins sees him make a return to Packwood Road, where he won the West Midlands Premier League and Cup double in 2011.

After almost five years out of the game, Whitehouse has returned rejuvenated and eager to lift struggling Town from their current position near the foot of the table.

Tividale, now managed by Dave King, sit top of the pile but Whitehouse’s involvement ensures tomorrow’s game has added spice.

“It’s funny how these things work out, going back to Tividale in my first game back at Dudley Town,” said Whitehouse, who had a brief spell in charge at the Dell in 2007.

“I had a great time at Tividale, where I enjoyed success. When I left in March 2013, I did so on good terms. I’ve still got a huge amount of time for the people at the club but on Saturday it is all about trying to get a result for Dudley Town.

“Whatever happens in this game, staying in the division is our long-term aim this season.”

Whitehouse is assisted at the Robins by Richard Taylor and Dave Smith, who were both part of his backroom team at Tivi.

“I’ve got a bit of the buzz back,” he said. “When I left Tividale it was the right time for a break from football. I’ve been spending plenty of time with my family and generally keeping away from it.

“Now I’ve got the hunger back. I’m under no illusions as to how tough it is going to be but I know what needs to be done.”

Tividale, who are enjoying an excellent season under the guidance of King, will be aiming to keep their noses ahead of the chasing pack in a highly-competitive division.

“Dean coming back certainly adds a bit of extra spice to the game, I’ve no doubt he will have his players up for it,” said King.

“We’ve got to be happy with where we are at the moment. To have 45 points at the halfway point of the season is good going. If we repeat that performance over the second half of the season, then we shouldn’t be too far away.”