Stratford Town announce Dean Holdsworth as new head coach

Holdsworth, who scored 63 goals in 228 Premier League outings, becomes the Bards’ fourth manager in six months after Paul Davis had guided Town into the FA Cup first round for the first time in November. Tim Flowers and Ian King had short stints but now the 53-year-old Holdsworth takes over the reins.

The former forward, who scored 197 career goals in 606 appearances, has managerial experience at Aldershot and Newport County, winning the Conference South title, but has been around Stratford for the last few years, helping with coaching sessions and in an ambassadorial role.

McCrory believes Holdsworth’s know-how and pedigree, alongside Hurren’s knowledge of the non-League scene, is an ideal combination. They will also fit into Town’s playing ethos to win with style.

“I think Dean is a perfect fit for the football club,” the owner and chairman told the Herald. “He has got his pro licence as a coach and he has played at the highest level so he can pass on that know-how.

“The lads will like him, he’s a funny and warm character, but he’s also very professional. He has come here to win and he buys into our ethos, playing passing football, playing exciting football and entertaining the fans.

“I think it’s going to be a good partnership with Dean and Gavin. They are both strong characters, both winners and hopefully they will instil that into the players, right through the club.”

Worcester-based Holdsworth said: “I’ve seen the club evolve and grow in the last few years and there’s a structure in place off the pitch and a good squad already here on it. I’ve known Jed for a while and enjoyed coming down to the club. If he’s asked my opinion on football matters, I’ve been happy to give it, but I’ve had commitments that made it difficult to get more involved. I’ve got the opportunity now and I want to help the club keep progressing.

“I will bring a little bit of experience and a little bit of tactical awareness but it’s going to be a team effort, working with Jed and Gavin. The players already have a great camaraderie and I want to build on that, to enjoy our football and that’s the best way to be successful.”

Hurren, a former Nottingham Forest trainee, played with Kidderminster Harriers, as well as having spells at Solihull Moors, Tamworth, Hednesford Town and Stourbridge. He was assistant at Stourbridge, then interim boss before the 36-year-old took over at Bromsgrove in November to steer them to safety in the Premier Central.

“It was a no-brainer to come to Stratford,” said Hurren, a UEFA B coach. “After speaking to Jed, you can see his passion and his vision for Stratford Town and for the town itself and I’m really excited to play a part. It’s a very positive environment, with a great infrastructure, and a focus on developing players, helping bring young players through. I can't wait to start."

Town's squad is already taking shape with the likes of skipper Will Grocott, Liam O'Brien, Jack Storer and Dan Vann already committed to next season.

The team's opening friendly has been pencilled in for 2nd July.