Challenge ahead: Dean Holden will be expected to guide Charlton away from the League One relegation zone
(Picture: Getty Images)Charlton have announced the appointment of Dean Holden as their new manager and former Brentford boss Andy Scott as technical director as part of a major shake-up of the club’s hierarchy.
Owner Thomas Sandgaard announced the changes, which include the appointment of a chief operating officer in Jim Rodwell, on Tuesday, having come under intense pressure from fans to sell the club, with the Addicks languishing in 18th in League One and just four points clear of the relegation zone. Ed Warrick has been appointed as finance director in the fourth and final addition.
Holden, who has previously managed Bristol City and Oldham, replaces Ben Garner, who was sacked earlier this month, and becomes the fifth permanent boss at the Valley since Sandgaard took over the club in September 2020.
Scott, meanwhile, has held key recruitment posts at Swansea, Watford and Nottingham Forest since leaving Brentford.
Tellingly, Sandgaard said the arrival of former Hull City CEO Rodwell “gives us senior leadership, on the ground at The Valley”. One of the major criticisms of Sandgaard’s stewardship has been his inability to run the club remotely from his home in the US.
“I am delighted we have been able to appoint such experienced and knowledgeable people to help us move forward,” Sandgaard said.
“Each individual appointed has experience at Championship level or higher and the appointments should give us the structure and stability that we need to progress as a club.
“When the men’s first-team is successful, it lifts the entire club, which is why the additions on the footballing side are so important. Dean Holden is a talented manager, who is well-respected in footballing circles. He’ll bring good experience and knowledge which will help us as we look to get our season back on track.”
Charlton confirmed that caretaker boss Anthony Hayes will remain in charge for tomorrow night’s League Cup meeting with Brighton, before Holden takes up his post in time for the Boxing Day visit of Peterborough.
“I am really pleased we have been able to bring in Andy Scott,” Sangaard continued. He is a highly-regarded individual who has played an important role in the success of a number of clubs and has the vision, skillset and contacts to help move the club forward.
“He’ll play a key role in the January transfer window and longer term will help further align the direction of our men’s first team and academy.”
