12. Dean Keates

The Saddlers swooped to re-sign local lad, Dean Keates from Lincoln City on 31st January 2006 on a free transfer. 

The 28 year old is a passionate battling midfielder who started his career here at Bescot Stadium where he developed through the very successful youth ranks to make his first-team debut against Plymouth when he came of the bench in October 1996 and only made a handful of appearances the season.

He really made it as a pro the next season playing a key role as the club enjoyed numerous cup adventures under Jan Sorensen which included an appearance in the forth round FA Cup tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford and The Coca-Cola Cup game as The Saddlers defeated Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United on the way to losing against West Ham United and also helped The Saddlers nearly make their first appearance at Wembley when they reached the Area Final p the Auto Windscreens Shield.  He also helped The Saddlers gain promotion to Division 1 (now The Championship) in 1998/99 under Ray Graydon.

Deano failed to recapture the form he had a higher level, but nevertheless remained a popular figure both on and off the pitch due to his efforts, although the club only spent one season in the division before been Relegated back to what is now known as League 1 and he also helped The Saddlers get back into what’s now The Championship at the first attempt via the never-to-be-forgotten day at The Millennium Stadium, Cardiff in May 2001.

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