Dean Keates has left National League promotion hopefuls Wrexham to join League One side Walsall.
The 39-year-old returns to his hometown club where he made over 200 appearances as a player.
Walsall triggered the release clause in Keates’ contract in full meaning Wrexham were obliged to allow the former Reds captain the opportunity to speak to the club that he supports.
Wrexham’s interim management team consists of Andy Davies and Carl Darlington and the club intends of making an appointment as quickly as possible.
“I’m delighted to come back,” Keates told Saddlers TV.
“I finished my career and learned my trade, coaching at a university linked to Wrexham and then had the opportunity for the last 14 months to be a manager there.
“I’m from the area. I was on the terraces at Fellows Park and then at the Banks’s – I’m a fan of the club and it feels good to be back.
“I’m still learning my trade but everyone is learning their trade, no matter their age.
“This opportunity came up for me and it wasn’t something I could let pass by. It’s my hometown and that’s a big thing for me.”
