Kidderminster Harriers: Dean Holdsworth arrives as technical director

Dean Holdsworth is a former co-owner of Bolton Wanderers

Kidderminster Harriers have appointed Dean Holdsworth as the first technical director at Aggborough.

The National League strugglers have hired the 55-year-old ex-Brentford, Wimbledon and Bolton striker to work alongside first-team boss Russ Penn.

Harriers, promoted via the National League North play-offs in May, currently stand 23rd in the fifth tier.

Harriers say the appointment represents "a significant milestone in the club's journey following promotion".

"The club has great potential both on and off the pitch to succeed in becoming a Football League club," said the former England B international.

Holdsworth has had two main spells in management - with Newport County, from May 2008 to January 2011, prior to their return to the Football League, and then at League Two side Aldershot, who sacked him in February 2013, when they were on course for relegation.

He is also a past chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association and founded the Non League Footballers Association.

Harriers chairman Richard Lane said: "Dean's exceptional experience as a player and manager will help guide Kidderminster Harriers in years to come to become sustainable off the pitch and achieve its goals on the pitch.

"As well as supporting Russ Penn, Jim O'Connor and the first-team staff, he will help ensure our philosophy is clearly defined, established and maintained in all areas of the Kidderminster Harriers family."

"Dean will be a great support to all corners of the football club with his knowledge and experience," said Penn.

"With the short-term success we've had at Kidderminster Harriers over the last three years, we have to learn and grow with the times."