Jack Michael Holden (born 20 February 1993) is a Welsh professional footballer who plays as a midfielder. He is best known for his time at Newport County, where he progressed through the club's youth system and was part of the squad that achieved promotion to the Football League in 2013.
Early Life and Career
Holden was born in Newport, Wales, and began his football journey in the youth ranks of his hometown club, Newport County. He rose through their academy, demonstrating potential as a central midfielder.
Club Career
Newport County
Holden made his senior debut for Newport County in the 2010–11 season, while the club was competing in the Conference Premier (then the fifth tier of English football). He gradually established himself in the first-team squad, known for his work rate and passing ability in midfield.
A significant period of his career came during the 2012–13 season, where he was a member of the Newport County side that won the Conference Premier play-off final against Wrexham, securing the club's return to the Football League after a 25-year absence. He continued to feature for the club in League Two during the 2013–14 and 2014–15 seasons, making a total of over 50 league appearances for the Exiles.
Loan Spells and Departure
During his tenure at Newport, Holden also gained experience through several loan spells to non-league clubs, including Bath City, Cirencester Town, and Gloucester City, to secure more regular first-team action. He departed Newport County in 2015.
Post-Newport Career
Following his departure from Newport County, Holden continued his career in non-league football, playing for various clubs across the Southern League and National League South divisions. His clubs included:
- Havant & Waterlooville (2015–2016)
- Merthyr Town (2016–2017)
- Hereford (2017–2018)
- Salisbury (2018–2019)
- Paulton Rovers (2019–)
At these clubs, Holden maintained his role as a dependable midfielder, contributing with his experience and consistency at various levels of non-league football.