Former Chesterfield defender Dean Holden appointed head coach of Championship club

Holden, 40, who played for the Spireites during the 2011/12 season, was Lee Johnson’s assistant before he was sacked in July.

He took over for the final five games of last season, losing just one.

City finished 12th in the Championship, seven points off the play-offs.

Holden said: “I am honoured to take on the role of head coach - it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I’m excited about this opportunity and I’m delighted that the board have selected me.

“What you see is what you get with me. I’ll be honest with the players, staff and the fans and I’ll graft as hard as I can to bring success to this football club.”

Holden will be assisted by Keith Downing and Paul Simpson, who have both been working as development coaches with England’s youth players.