Deano delighted to finally get his man (From South Wales Argus)

Deano delighted to finally get his man

11:40am Friday 19th June 2009

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NEWPORT County boss Dean Holdsworth landed another transfer coup yesterday after swooping to sign the in-demand Charlie Henry.

Henry, 23, a two-footed winger, signs from Conference South rivals Havant and Waterlooville after falling out with Hawks boss Shaun Gale.

It is a classic case of poacher turns gamekeeper for the Exiles, as the wing wizard has been a constant thorn in their side.

In 2007 Henry scored both of the goals for Cambridge City that ended County’s promotion aspirations at Spytty Park on the final game of the campaign, also scoring against the Exiles for previous side Dorchester and for Havant.

He has also played for Grays Athletic and Haverhill Rovers and is well known for his exuberant summersault goal celebration.

He is regarded as one of the best players at Blue Square South level and both the player and his new manager were thrilled to tie up the deal, ahead of the arrival of another wide midfielder who is expected to join County next week.

Holdsworth explained: “Charlie is another significant signing for us and I want him to take his anger out on the pitch after what was a bit of a lost season for him.

“He is joining a very, very good squad and we feel he’s the kind of player who can contribute enormously for us.”

Henry admitted Newport has always been a club he has kept an eye on and the wide-man is excited about pushing for automatic promotion this season.

“It wasn’t too tough a choice for me, I had other options but I’ve always fancied playing for Newport and have huge respect for Dean Holdsworth,” he said.

“I wasn’t going to stay at Havant because I don’t see eye-to-eye with the manager there, so it’s a big relief to sign for Dean.

“He is building a really tasty squad and I feel we will definitely challenge for promotion with the players already at the club.

“I don’t know anyone personally, but Charlie Griffin recommended Newport to me and the fans have always made a big impression, they are very passionate.”

And the new boy is hoping Spytty Park will continue to be a happy hunting ground for him.

“I hope the fans forgive me for the goals that cost them the play-offs, I do always seem to score against Newport don’t I?” he said.

“I have ambitions to play at the highest level possible and wouldn’t have stayed in the Conference South unless it was to join an ambitious club.

“I started last season well but then had bad injury problems, but that’s behind me now and I can’t wait to play with quality players like Craig Reid.

“I feel County are on the up and it’s a big move for me, I am very excited about it and am looking forward to linking up with the lads when pre-season starts.”

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