Dean Whitehead
{{short description|English footballer}}
{{good article}}
{{Use British English|date=August 2011}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2020}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Dean Whitehead
| image = DeanWhitehead crop.JPG
| caption = Whitehead playing for Stoke City in 2010
| fullname = Dean Whitehead{{cite web |url=https://www.premierleague.com/news/612828 |title=Updated squads for 2017/18 Premier League confirmed |publisher=Premier League |date=2 February 2018 |access-date=11 February 2018}}
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1982|1|12|df=y}}{{cite book |editor-first=Barry J. |editor-last=Hugman |title=The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11 |year=2011 |publisher=Mainstream Publishing |location=Edinburgh |isbn=978-1-84596-601-0 |page=436}}
| birth_place = Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England{{cite web |title=Sunderland AFC - Statistics, History and Records - from TheStatCat |url=http://www.thestatcat.co.uk/Player.aspx?PlayerID=920 |website=www.thestatcat.co.uk |access-date=1 November 2022}}
| height = {{height|ft=5|in=11}}
| position = Central midfielder; right-back
| currentclub =
| youthyears1 = | youthclubs1 = Abingdon Town
| youthyears2 = {{0|0000}}–1999| youthclubs2 = Oxford United
| years1 = 1999–2004 | clubs1 = Oxford United | caps1 = 122 | goals1 = 9
| years2 = 2004–2009 | clubs2 = Sunderland | caps2 = 185 | goals2 = 13
| years3 = 2009–2013 | clubs3 = Stoke City | caps3 = 132 | goals3 = 3
| years4 = 2013–2015 | clubs4 = Middlesbrough | caps4 = 55 | goals4 = 1
| years5 = 2015–2018 | clubs5 = Huddersfield Town | caps5 = 54 | goals5 = 0
| totalcaps = 548 | totalgoals = 26
| manageryears1 = 2023
| managerclubs1 = Cardiff City (caretaker)
}}
Dean Whitehead (born 12 January 1982) is an English football coach and former professional footballer who is an assistant head coach at {{English football updater|BlackbuR}} club Blackburn Rovers. A midfielder who occasionally played as a right-back, he made 622 league and cup appearances in a 19-year playing career, scoring 29 goals.
Whitehead joined his local non-League club Abingdon Town before he signed for Football League club Oxford United in 1999. He played for Oxford in the Second Division until their relegation into the Third Division in 2001. He was signed by Championship club Sunderland in 2004. He won promotion in his first season with Sunderland, although they were relegated from the Premier League after one season. He was made captain by Roy Keane as Sunderland claimed an instant return to the top flight. After two more seasons in the north-east, Whitehead signed for Stoke City in 2009. He helped Stoke reach the 2011 FA Cup final, where the team finished runners-up to Manchester City. After spending four seasons with Stoke, Whitehead signed for Middlesbrough in 2013. He moved to Huddersfield Town two years later, helping them to get promoted from the Championship in 2017 before retiring in 2018.
He has coached at Huddersfield Town, Shrewsbury Town, Port Vale, Beşiktaş (Turkey), Cardiff City, Watford, Barnsley, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers.
Playing career
=Oxford United=
Born in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, Whitehead started his career with Abingdon Town's youth team, before joining the youth scheme of his local professional Football League club, Oxford United as an apprentice.{{cite web|url=https://www.mfc.co.uk/news/boro-midfielder-dean-whitehead-gives-insight-to-life-as-a-footballer-at-christmas|title=Boro midfielder Dean Whitehead gives insight to life as a footballer at Christmas|publisher=Middlesbrough F.C.|date=24 December 2014|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106221817/https://www.mfc.co.uk/news/boro-midfielder-dean-whitehead-gives-insight-to-life-as-a-footballer-at-christmas|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=live}}
He progressed through the ranks, making his first-team debut in a 2–0 win over Luton Town in the Football League Trophy on 7 December 1999.{{cite news|title=Manor youngsters released|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6636937.manor-youngsters-released/|work=Oxford Mail|date=4 March 1999|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Two-goal Powell spot-on for U's|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6634414.two-goal-powell-spot-on-for-us/|work=Oxford Mail|date=8 December 1999|access-date=10 November 2018}} This turned out to be Whitehead's only appearance of the 1999–00 season, as he spent the rest of the season on the substitute bench.{{cite news|title=United will face Reading without Fear|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6633372.united-will-face-reading-without-fear/|work=Oxford Mail|date=7 March 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the end of the 1999–00 season, he signed a contract with the club.{{cite news|title=Boss Den waits on new striker|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6631711.boss-den-waits-on-new-striker/|work=Oxford Mail|date=7 June 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}}
In the 2000–01 season, Whitehead soon received a handful of first-team appearances for the club by manager Denis Smith.{{cite news|title=FOOTBALL: Dean Whitehead standing by|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6629336.football-dean-whitehead-standing-by/|work=Oxford Mail|date=22 August 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Football: Bright future for United youngsters|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6629242.football-bright-future-for-united-youngsters/|work=Oxford Mail|date=25 August 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}} Although he received his first-team opportunities, he found himself in a competition with Matt Murphy and other midfielders for the central role.{{cite news|title=Football: Linighan to bring on kids|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6627474.football-linighan-to-bring-on-kids/|work=Oxford Mail|date=17 October 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Kemp might turn to Deano|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6623877.kemp-might-turn-to-deano/|work=Oxford Mail|date=30 January 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Matt wants a new deal|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6622990.matt-wants-a-new-deal/|work=Oxford Mail|date=10 February 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite being sidelined on two occasions, due to suspensions,{{cite news|title=Football: League back united plea|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6627572.football-league-back-united-plea/|work=Oxford Mail|date=13 October 2000|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Derby delight as Robbo fires double|url=https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/7385718.derby-delight-as-robbo-fires-double/|publisher=Swindon Advertiser|date=12 March 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Deano's mission|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6583695.deanos-mission/|work=Oxford Mail|date=5 December 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead played in 23 matches in 2000–01 season, as Oxford suffered relegation to the Third Division.{{cite news|title=Match report: Luton Town v Oxford Utd - April 10, 2001|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6619275.match-report-luton-town-v-oxford-utd-april-10-2001/|work=Oxford Mail|date=10 April 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Arson adds to United agony|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6619510.arson-adds-to-united-agony/|work=Oxford Mail|date=9 April 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the end of the 2000–01 season, he signed a long–term contract with the club.{{cite news|title=United ready to sign young guns|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6616540.united-ready-to-sign-young-guns/|work=Oxford Mail|date=17 May 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
In the 2001–02 season, Whitehead scored his first goal in the Football League against Rushden & Diamonds on 31 August 2001.{{cite news|title=Oxford United 3–2 Rushden|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/1518418.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 August 2001|access-date=19 August 2017}} He was soon a first-team regular in 2001–02 season, establishing himself in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=A win will do nicely, says Wright|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6609159.a-win-will-do-nicely-says-wright/|work=Oxford Mail|date=24 August 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Football: Modest Atkins off to a flier|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6605186.football-modest-atkins-off-to-a-flier/|work=Oxford Mail|date=26 November 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=A34 MISERY WILL|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6602928.a34-misery-will/|work=Oxford Mail|date=29 December 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, halfway through the season, Whitehead, along with Chris Hackett were subjected to criticism by manager Ian Atkins for unprofessionalism over refusing to do the club's fitness programme, which were denied by the pair, who stated the whole thing was a misunderstanding.{{cite news|title='We're not slackers' say United duo|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6596888.were-not-slackers-say-united-duo/|work=Oxford Mail|date=13 March 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} Towards the end of the 2001–02 season, he began playing in a central midfield role.{{cite news|title=A34 MISERY WILL|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6595823.a34-misery-will/|work=Oxford Mail|date=6 April 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite missing out three matches,{{cite news|title=Football: Whitehead misses out|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6605131.football-whitehead-misses-out/|work=Oxford Mail|date=27 November 2001|access-date=10 November 2018}} he played in 43 fixtures as Oxford United had a poor season, finishing in 21st position.{{cite news|title=Football: United boss pinpoints priorities|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6594605.football-united-boss-pinpoints-priorities/|work=Oxford Mail|date=27 April 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Whitehead began the 2002–03 season as a first-team regular in good form.{{cite news|title=Football: Ford gets them buzzing|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6589981.football-ford-gets-them-buzzing/|work=Oxford Mail|date=5 August 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Football: United want Viveash to stay|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6587634.football-united-want-viveash-to-stay/|work=Oxford Mail|date=20 September 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Hunter gets nod for U's|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6583091.hunter-gets-nod-for-us/|work=Oxford Mail|date=13 December 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the beginning of November, Whitehead's performances against Aston Villa and Rochdale were praised by Atkins.{{cite news|title=Deano fits the bill|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6585030.deano-fits-the-bill/|work=Oxford Mail|date=13 November 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} He continued with his impressive displays to the end of the year.{{cite news|title=Savage is on tenterhooks|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6582493.savage-is-on-tenterhooks/|work=Oxford Mail|date=23 December 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead later scored his first goal of the season on 26 December, in a 3–0 win over AFC Bournemouth.{{cite news|title=United go on the rampage|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6582425.united-go-on-the-rampage/|work=Oxford Mail|date=27 December 2002|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, he found his first-team chances limited between January and March.{{cite news|title=Call-off suits the u's|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6582224.call-off-suits-the-us/|work=Oxford Mail|date=2 January 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=United out to shake 'em up|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6580411.united-out-to-shake-em-up/|work=Oxford Mail|date=3 February 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Bobby's a real dazzler!|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6579194.bobbys-a-real-dazzler/|work=Oxford Mail|date=1 March 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} As a result, he was restricted to 22 appearances in 2002–03 as Oxford missed out on a play-off place by a single point.{{cite news|title=United's final fling|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6576266.uniteds-final-fling/|work=Oxford Mail|date=3 May 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Football: It's heartbreak for United|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6576168.football-its-heartbreak-for-united/|work=Oxford Mail|date=6 May 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
In 2003–04 season, Whitehead reclaimed his place in the team following the departure of Dave Savage.{{cite news|title=Dave Savage set for Bristol Rovers|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6574905.savage-set-for-rovers/|work=Oxford Mail|date=11 June 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Atkins fires out warning|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6569450.atkins-fires-out-warning/|work=Oxford Mail|date=10 January 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} It wasn't until on 27 September 2003 when he scored his first goal of the season, in a 3–0 win over Northampton Town.{{cite news|title=Bash brace sinks Northampton Town|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6572154.bash-brace-sinks-northampton/|work=Oxford Mail|date=28 September 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} He was praised for his performances in his run of first-team football.{{cite news|title=Oldfield sounds the battle cry|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6571963.oldfield-sounds-the-battle-cry/|work=Oxford Mail|date=4 October 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Deano wins over boss!|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6571371.deano-wins-over-boss/|work=Oxford Mail|date=27 October 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead scored his first brace of the season on 18 October, in a 4–0 win over Bury.{{cite news|title=Oxford strength too much for the Shakers|url=https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/5876124.oxford-strength-too-much-for-the-shakers/|work=The Bury Times|date=21 October 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} He also scored a free kick on 1 November, helping his team to make a 3–1 comeback win over Darlington.{{cite news|title=Deano the virtuoso|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6571211.deano-the-virtuoso/|work=Oxford Mail|date=3 November 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} As a result, he was offered a two–year contract by the club, which would keep him at the Kassam Stadium until 2006.{{cite news|title=Deano Deal|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6570550.deano-deal/|work=Oxford Mail|date=27 November 2003|access-date=10 November 2018}} On 21 February 2004, he scored against Bury for the second time that season, in a 1–1 draw.{{cite news|title=Deano set to shake 'em up|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6568300.deano-set-to-shake-em-up/|work=Oxford Mail|date=21 February 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Shakers get dose of Oxford blues|url=https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/5855506.shakers-get-dose-of-oxford-blues/|work=The Bury Times|date=23 February 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} In a 2–1 loss against Macclesfield Town on 1 May, Whitehead captained the side for the first time, in the absence of Andy Crosby.{{cite news|title=Alsop in shock recall|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6566081.alsop-in-shock-recall/|work=Oxford Mail|date=8 May 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Football: Dean's joy at dream role|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6566173.football-deans-joy-at-dream-role/|work=Oxford Mail|date=6 May 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} By the end of the 2003–04 season, he made 47 appearances and scoring seven goals. Whitehead was named the club's Player of the Season.{{cite news|title=Football: Don't go Deano|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6566049.football-dont-go-deano/|work=Oxford Mail|date=10 May 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
After playing for the club for five seasons, his contract expired and he turned down the offer of a new one from the club.{{cite news|title=Whitehead to leave Oxford United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/o/oxford_utd/3813233.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 June 2004|access-date=19 August 2017}}
{{cite news|title=Football: U's fight to keep Deano|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6565197.football-us-fight-to-keep-deano/|work=Oxford Mail|date=7 June 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} Manager Graham Rix revealed that Whitehead would have been appointed as Crosby's successor as captain if he signed a new contract with the club.{{cite news|title=Football: United wait on skipper|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6564447.football-united-wait-on-skipper/|work=Oxford Mail|date=7 July 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
=Sunderland=
In June 2004, Whitehead signed for Championship club Sunderland on a free transfer.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/3826743.stm "Whitehead joins Sunderland"]. BBC Sport. 21 June 2004. Retrieved 19 August 2017. Upon signing a three–year contract with the club, he revealed that his ambition and desire to play at a higher level was why he joined Sunderland.{{cite news|title=Football: Deano confident he can make his mark|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6564772.football-deano-confident-he-can-make-his-mark/|work=Oxford Mail|date=22 June 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} Sunderland were ordered to pay £150,000 to Oxford at an FA tribunal, to compensate for the time and money put into his development.{{cite news|title=Football: Deano's beano!|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6557411.football-deanos-beano/|work=Oxford Mail|date=28 April 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Oxford would also receive 25% of any fee should Sunderland sell Whitehead.{{cite news|title=Oxford United's £650,000 windfall as Whitehead joins Stoke City|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/4512280.uniteds-650000-windfall-as-whitehead-joins-stoke/|work=Oxford Mail|date=25 July 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Whitehead made his Sunderland debut, coming on as a late substitute for Ben Clark, in a 2–0 loss against Coventry City in the opening game of the season.{{cite news|title=Match Report: Sunderland 0, Coventry City 2|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-0-coventry-city-2-1626491|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 August 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} He quickly became a key member of the team, playing regularly despite facing competition from other midfielders.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1, Wigan 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-1-wigan-1-1628837|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=28 August 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Cats have top three in sights|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-top-three-sights-1632127|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=28 September 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Piper tunes up|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/piper-tunes-up-1642340|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=31 December 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Place battle gives Liam buzz|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/place-battle-gives-liam-buzz-1573327|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=20 April 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} His run in the first-team saw him praised by manager Mick McCarthy.{{cite news|title=Deano praised by McCarthy|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/6563110.deano-praised-by-mccarthy/|work=Oxford Mail|date=28 August 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} It wasn't until 25 October when he scored his first goal for the club, in a 1–0 win over Rotherham United.{{cite news|title=Rotherham United 0, Sunderland 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rotherham-united-0-sunderland-1-1635379|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=26 October 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} He then scored his second goal of the season on 11 December, in a 2–0 win over Cardiff City.{{cite news|title=Cardiff City 2–0 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/4068233.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 December 2004|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead scored three more goals later in the season in games that ended up as Sunderland victories.{{cite news|title=Derby County 0–2 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/4157227.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 January 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Hit-man Sean rues ban|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/hit-man-sean-rues-ban-1567040|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=23 February 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 5, Plymouth Argyle 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-5-plymouth-argyle-1-1569362|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=16 March 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Following his good performance at Sunderland halfway through the season, he was given a new three-year contract during 2004–05.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/4326917.stm "New Sunderland deal for Whitehead"]. BBC Sport. 7 March 2005. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
{{cite news|title=Whitehead gets reward|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-gets-reward-1568472|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 March 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite missing out three matches during the season, as he went on to make forty–three appearances and scoring five times in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Cats boss issues challenge|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-boss-issues-challenge-1567200|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=25 February 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=McCarthy ponders swoop|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mccarthy-ponders-swoop-1569596|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=18 March 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} He helped Sunderland to win the Championship in 2004–05, and was chosen as Players' Player of the Year by his teammates at the end of the season.{{cite news|title=Promotion costs not a problem|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/promotion-costs-not-a-problem-1574744|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 May 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
In the 2005–06, Whitehead continued to establish himself in the starting eleven, with the club playing in the Premier League.{{cite news|title=Deano facing top test|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/deano-facing-top-test-1585911|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=12 August 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Is Whitehead a new Roy Keane?|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-new-roy-keane-1590767|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=24 September 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Welsh steps out of Arca's shadow|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/welsh-steps-out-arcas-shadow-1592084|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=5 October 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite the club's struggles in the Premier League at the start of the season, he made a positive impact for the side.{{cite news|title=Stead in doubt for clash at Anfield|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/stead-doubt-clash-anfield-1586751|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=20 August 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=I just cannot wait to score|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/just-cannot-wait-score-1592871|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 October 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} His performances earned him comparison to Manchester United's Roy Keane.{{cite news|title=Deano shows he can mix it with the bes|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/deano-shows-can-mix-best-1591784|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=2 October 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} It wasn't until 29 October when he scored his first Premier League goal, in a 4–1 loss against Portsmouth.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1-4 Portsmouth|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4366688.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 October 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Three weeks later, on 19 November, Whitehead scored his second goal of the season, in a 3–1 loss against Aston Villa.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1, Aston Villa 3|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-1-aston-villa-3-1597581|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=20 November 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} By November, he began playing in the right-wing position, a more unfamiliar role.{{cite news|title=Whitehead is the right man|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-is-the-right-man-1598190|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=25 November 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=We need winning formula|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/we-need-winning-formula-1529168|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=29 March 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}} On 26 November, Whitehead signed a contract extension with the club, keeping him at the Stadium of Light until 2010.{{cite news|title=Another new deal for head boy Dean|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/another-new-deal-head-boy-1598309|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=26 November 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} He scored a swerving {{convert|30|yd}} free kick past then-England goalkeeper Paul Robinson in a 3–2 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on 3 December.{{cite news|title=Tottenham 3-2 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4473100.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 December 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} Sunderland were eventually relegated to the Championship for the 2006–07 season.{{cite news|title=Dean's happy it's over|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/deans-happy-its-over-1534270|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 May 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news |title=What went wrong for Sunderland?|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/4778608.stm|publisher=BBC Sport |date=6 March 2006 |access-date=19 August 2017 |first=Chris|last=Bevan}} Despite missing out one match during the 2005–06 season, Whitehead went on to make thirty–eight appearances and scored three goals in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Cats wait on midfielder|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-wait-on-midfielder-1591318|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=28 September 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Black Cats trio miss Spurs|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/black-cats-trio-miss-spurs-1523487|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 February 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Ahead of the 2006–07 season, Reading had a bid of £1.2 million for Whitehead rejected in July 2006.{{cite news |title=Black Cats reject Whitehead offer|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/5154224.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 July 2006|access-date=19 August 2017}} The following month, Whitehead and teammate Liam Lawrence both signed new contracts.{{cite news|title=Sunderland duo sign new contracts|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/5242100.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 August 2006|access-date=19 August 2017}} He continued to establish himself in the first-team, under the management of newly appointed manager Roy Keane.{{cite news|title=Geordie spoils a big homecoming|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/geordie-spoils-a-big-homecoming-1544838|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 August 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Caldwell: It is my time to impress|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/caldwell-time-impress-1549691|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=21 September 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Whitehead knows his place|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-knows-his-place-1484126|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=13 February 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead then scored his first goal of the season against West Bromwich Albion, in a 2–0 win during which he was named as man of the match.{{cite news|title=Heroic Deano's Keane to learn|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/heroic-deanos-keane-to-learn-1546977|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=29 August 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}} Then, on 21 October, he scored his second goal of the season, in a 2–0 win against Barnsley.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2–0 Barnsley|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/6069148.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 October 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}} During the 2006–07 season, Whitehead resigned the captaincy to concentrate on his football but he deputised for the frequently injured Steven Caldwell and was reappointed as captain on a permanent basis after Caldwell was sold to Burnley.{{cite news|title=We'll be all Dwight|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/well-be-all-dwight-1549900|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=22 September 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Thinking outside the box|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/thinking-outside-the-box-1483254|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=6 February 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=We don't want break|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/we-dont-want-break-1482149|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=28 January 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} At one point during the 2006–07 season, Whitehead played in a right–back position following the absence of Nyron Nosworthy.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 3, Colchester 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-3-colchester-1-1556486|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=19 November 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1, Norwich 0|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-1-norwich-0-1558132|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 December 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2, Luton Town 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-2-luton-town-1-1559051|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 December 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}} The following month, he reverted to his central midfield position.{{cite news|title=Varga's a doubt for Tractor Boys clash|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/vargas-doubt-tractor-boys-clash-1480455|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 January 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} Towards the end of the season, Whitehead scored two more goals.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2, Stoke City|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-2-stoke-city-2-1490009|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=14 March 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2 QPR 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-2-qpr-1-1493525|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=14 April 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} Sunderland finished first in the Championship in 2006–07, thus making an instant return to the Premier League.{{cite news|title=Luton 0–5 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/6602865.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 May 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the end of the 2006–07 season, Whitehead was included in the PFA Team of the Year.{{cite news|title=Ronaldo secures PFA awards double|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/6582201.stm|publisher=BBC Sport |date=22 April 2007|access-date=19 August 2017}} He also came second in the club's Player of the Year vote.{{cite news|title=Nosworthy wins Sunderland award|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/6596465.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 April 2007|access-date=19 August 2017}}
{{cite news|title=Nosworthy eyes a bigger prize|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/nosworthy-eyes-a-bigger-prize-1493031|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=27 April 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite being sidelined during the 2006–07 season,{{cite news|title=Keane: I'll calm Cats after win|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keane-ill-calm-cats-after-1548838|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=14 September 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Keane's defensive headache|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keanes-defensive-headache-1558732|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 December 2006|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead went on to make forty–seven appearances and scoring four times in all competitions.
File:Fulham vs Sunderland.jpg in April 2008.]]
In the 2007–08 season, Whitehead played in the right–back position against Tottenham Hotspur in the opening game of the season before sustaining a cruciate knee ligament injury in a match against Wigan Athletic in August, which ruled him out for six months.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1–0 Tottenham Hotspur|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/6931064.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 August 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Whitehead injury rocks Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/6961841.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 August 2007|access-date=19 August 2017}} He made his comeback from injury in early–November 2007 and made his first-team return on 24 November, playing every minute of a 7–1 loss against Everton.{{cite news|title=Everton 7, Sunderland 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/everton-7-sunderland-1-1505778|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=24 November 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Whitehead belief in full recovery|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/7230321.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 February 2008|access-date=19 August 2017}} Since returning from injury, he regained his first-team place for Sunderland.{{cite news|title=Nyron: Injuries have hit Cats hard|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/nyron-injuries-hit-cats-hard-1506696|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=23 December 2007|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Yorke not Dwight for capital trip |url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/yorke-not-dwight-captial-trip-1468634|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=4 April 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} He then scored his first goal of the season, in a 2–1 loss against Manchester City on 14 April.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1 Manchester City 2|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-1-manchester-city-2-1469011|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=14 April 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the end of the 2007–08 season, Whitehead helped Sunderland to avoid relegation by three points.{{cite news|title=Dean: Cats will prove they're the cream|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/dean-cats-prove-theyre-cream-1466669|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 February 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=No slip-ups now – Dean|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/no-slip-ups-now--dean-1468030|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=19 March 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Cats have a point to prove: Whitehead|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-point-prove-whitehead-1469872|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=9 May 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite being sidelined during the season,{{cite news|title=Depleted Pompey still Rich in talent|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/depleted-pompey-still-rich-talent-1465531|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 January 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead went on to make twenty–eight appearances and scoring once in all competitions. During parts of the season, Whitehead played at right-back, although this ended when Whitehead moved back into central midfield.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 3 Middlesbrough 2|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-3-middlesbrough-2-1469545|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=27 April 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Bolton 2 Sunderland 0|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/bolton-2-sunderland-0-1469723|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=4 May 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Ahead of the 2008–09 season, Whitehead was linked to a move away from Sunderland, as newly-promotion Premier League side Stoke City made a £3 million bid on him.{{cite news|title=Whitehead's pledge on future|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whiteheads-pledge-on-future-1471169|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=13 June 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} In response, he stated that he wanted to stay at Sunderland.{{cite news|title=United windfall hopes dashed|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/2350732.united-windfall-hopes-dashed/|work=Oxford Mail|date=18 June 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} At the start of the season, Whitehead continued to remain in the starting line-up for the side.{{cite news|title=Whitehead is looking to make the most of troubles at St James's|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-looking-make-most-troubles-1448936|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=31 January 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Ricky Sbragia set to ditch Sunderland's front pair|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ricky-sbragia-set-ditch-sunderlands-1453941|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=5 May 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Ricky Sbragia calls for total team commitment|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ricky-sbragia-calls-total-team-1454100|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 May 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} After a 4–1 loss against Bolton Wanderers on 29 November, he was heavily booed by the club's supporters for the performance throughout the match, in what transpired to be Keane's last match as Sunderland manager.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1 Bolton 4|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-1-bolton-4-1478136|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=30 November 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland boss Roy Keane quits the club|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-boss-roy-keane-quits-1478292|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=4 December 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead continued to be linked away from Sunderland throughout the January transfer window.{{cite news|title=Jones and Whitehead 'will stay at Sunderland'|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jones-whitehead-will-stay-sunderland-1448125|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=15 January 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=U's wait on Deano|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/4051510.us-wait-on-deano/|work=Oxford Mail|date=15 January 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite missing out four matches during the season,{{cite news|title=Kieran Richardson sees top-half finish for Cats|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/kieran-richardson-sees-top-half-finish-1478739|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=15 December 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead focused on Man United challenge|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/dean-whitehead-focused-man-united-1452324|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=6 April 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead helped the side avoid relegation once again after losing 3–2 to Chelsea in the last game of the season as defeats for Newcastle and Middlesbrough meant Sunderland were safe.{{cite news|title=Sbragia leaving shocked captain Whitehead|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sbragia-leaving-shocked-captain-whitehead-1454996|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=25 May 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} By the end of the 2008–09 season, Whitehead went on to make thirty–eight appearances in all competitions. He left Sunderland in August 2009 after making 200 appearances for the club.{{cite news|title=Stoke confirm Whitehead transfer|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8167640.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=8 November 2010|date=24 July 2009}}{{cite news|title=INTERVIEW: Roker Report meets... former Sunderland skipper & Player of the Year, Dean Whitehead!|url=https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2018/10/11/17931644/interview-roker-report-meets-former-sunderland-skipper-player-of-the-year-dean-whitehead|publisher=Roker Report – SB Nation|date=11 October 2018|access-date=10 November 2018}}
=Stoke City=
File:Stoke City FC V Arsenal 67 (4313293407).jpg's Cesc Fàbregas (wearing a number 4 shirt) during a FA Cup match in January 2010.]]
Whitehead signed a four-year contract with Premier League club Stoke City on 24 July 2009 for an initial £3 million fee, rising to £5 million with add-ons.{{cite web|url=http://www.stokecityfc.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10310~1732063,00.html|title=Dean Deal Done|publisher=Stoke City FC|date=24 July 2009|access-date=10 November 2018|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090725232610/http://www.stokecityfc.com/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10310~1732063%2C00.html|archive-date=25 July 2009}} He stated that Stoke's team spirit was the main reason for his move to the club.{{cite news|title=Stoke spirit persuaded Whitehead|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8170572.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=8 November 2010|date=27 July 2009}} He made his debut on 15 August 2009 in a 2–0 win over Burnley.{{cite news|title=Stoke City 2 – 0 Burnley|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8199037.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 August 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead made a slow start to his Stoke career with a number of anonymous performances.{{cite news|title=Bolton boo boys are affecting players, claims Gary Cahill|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/bolton-boo-boys-affecting-players-3372970|work=Daily Mirror|date=20 September 2009|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, following a 0–0 draw with Blackburn Rovers, he earned praise from manager Tony Pulis.{{cite news|title=Pulis hails midfielder Whitehead|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8384924.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 November 2009|access-date=19 August 2017}} Whitehead scored his first goal for Stoke when he converted winger Matthew Etherington's cross in the 86th-minute in a 3–1 FA Cup fourth-round win over Arsenal at the Britannia Stadium on 24 January 2010.{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead thrilled with first goal for Stoke City|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8480767.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 January 2010|access-date=19 August 2017}} Whitehead was sent off against Tottenham Hotspur in March 2010 in a decision which drew referee Mike Dean heavy criticism from Tony Pulis and Matthew Etherington.{{cite news|title=Matthew Etherington disappointed with referee decisions|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8578729.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 March 2010|access-date=19 August 2017}}{{cite news|title=Stoke manager Tony Pulis unhappy with referee Mike Dean|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stoke_city/8578227.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 March 2010|access-date=19 August 2017}}
His first Premier League goal for Stoke came against Birmingham City on 9 November 2010, with Whitehead scoring the winning goal in a 3–2 victory.{{cite news|first=Phil|last=Hawkes|title=Stoke 3–2 Birmingham|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9163117.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 November 2010|access-date=19 August 2017}} He scored his second league goal for Stoke away to Manchester United on 4 January 2011, becoming the first Stoke player to score at Old Trafford since 1980.{{cite news|first=Jonathan|last=Stevenson|title=Man Utd 2–1 Stoke|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9334445.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 January 2011|access-date=19 August 2017}} Towards the end of 2010–11, Whitehead lost his place in the starting eleven to a resurging Glenn Whelan, making some cameo appearances from the bench.{{cite news |url=http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/city/stokecitynews/Stoke-City-Whelan-s-s-playing-keeps/article-3528225-detail/article.html |title=Whelan's back ... and he's playing for keeps |publisher=thisisstaffordshire.co.uk |date=28 April 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110509045108/http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/city/stokecitynews/Stoke-City-Whelan-s-s-playing-keeps/article-3528225-detail/article.html |archive-date=9 May 2011 }}{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} One of these came at Wembley Stadium in the 2011 FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City.{{cite news|first=Phil|last=McNulty|title=Man City 1–0 Stoke City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/13346941|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 May 2011|access-date=19 August 2017}}
Ahead of the 2011–12 season, Whitehead said he expected to face new competition in the club's midfield section.{{cite news|title=Whitehead welcomes competition|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11675/7095383/whitehead-welcomes-competition|publisher=Sky Sports|date=12 August 2011|access-date=10 November 2018}} He then made his 100th appearance for Stoke on 3 November 2011 in a UEFA Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, scoring the first goal in a 2–1 victory.{{cite web|title=Maccabi Tel-Av vs Stoke City|url=http://www.stokecityfc.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10310~61083,00.html|publisher=Stoke City F.C.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105213912/http://www.stokecityfc.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10310~61083%2C00.html|archive-date=5 November 2011|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|first=David|last=Ornstein|title=Macc Tel-Aviv 1–2 Stoke|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/15472966|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=19 August 2017|date=3 November 2011}} He played in 10 of Stoke's 12 European fixtures in 2011–12, and ended the season having played in 47 matches in total. He made a bad start to 2012–13, as on the opening day of the season away to Reading, he conceded a 90th-minute penalty. He was sent off after picking up a second yellow card.{{cite news|first=Owen|last=Phillips|title=Reading 1–1 Stoke City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/19221348 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=18 August 2012|access-date=19 August 2017}} He remained back-up to Glenn Whelan for the remainder of the season, being used mainly as a substitute, although he was assigned as a stand-in right-back in the absence of Andy Wilkinson and Ryan Shotton.{{cite web|url=https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/deanos-defensive-role|title=DEANO'S DEFENSIVE ROLE|publisher=Stoke City F.C.|date=19 January 2013|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106215920/https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/deanos-defensive-role|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/everton-preview|title=Everton Preview|publisher=Stoke City F.C.|date=28 November 2012|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106213050/https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/everton-preview|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|first=Martin|last=Spinks|title=Dean Whitehead relaxed over future at the Britannia|url=http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/stoke-city-dean-whitehead-relaxed-future/story-18922817-detail/story.html|newspaper=The Sentinel|location=Stoke|date=8 May 2013|access-date=19 August 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002054730/http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Stoke-City-Dean-Whitehead-relaxed-future/story-18922817-detail/story.html|archive-date=2 October 2015}} He was released by Stoke at the end of 2012–13.{{cite news|title=Stoke City: Jermaine Pennant is one of seven players released|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/22798467|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 June 2013|access-date=19 August 2017}}
=Middlesbrough=
Whitehead signed a two-year contract with Championship club Middlesbrough on 2 July 2013.{{cite news |title=Middlesbrough sign Dean Whitehead after Stoke exit|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/23145285|publisher=BBC Sport |date=2 July 2013|access-date=19 August 2017}} Manager Tony Mowbray revealed that Whitehead's experience of gaining promotion from the Championship twice was the key reason in signing him.{{cite news|title=Middlesbrough: Dean Whitehead is key says Tony Mowbray|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/23160769|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 July 2013|access-date=19 August 2017}} Upon joining the club, he was given a number eighteen shirt ahead of a new season.{{cite news|title=Squad numbers: Boro reveal which shirts players will be wearing in 2013/14|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/boro-allocate-squad-numbers-5393151|publisher=Gazette Live|date=8 August 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}} He made his Middlesbrough debut in a 2–1 loss against Leicester City in the opening game of the season.{{cite news|title=Match report: Boro 1 Leicester City 2|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/match-report-boro-1-leicester-5586507|publisher=Gazette Live|date=5 August 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}} Since joining the club, he quickly established himself in the starting eleven in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=Boro's six summer signings need time to fulfil potential, says Tony Mowbray|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boros-six-summer-signings-need-6197401|publisher=Gazette Live|date=17 October 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Simon Fallaha: Five key questions facing Boro - if they are to progress|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/simon-fallaha-five-big-questions-6501623|publisher=Gazette Live|date=21 January 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=John Powls: You never know - Karanka might ask 'what's to lose by having a right go' at Brighton|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/john-powls-middlesbough-brighton-6890700|publisher=Gazette Live|date=28 March 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite being in the first-team, Whitehead faced strong competition from other midfielders at the Riverside Stadium.{{cite news|title=Jozsef Varga: Tony Mowbray to address midfielder's long-term future|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/jozsef-varga-tony-mowbray-address-6071480|publisher=Gazette Live|date=21 September 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Chelsea loan star Nathaniel Chalobah set for holding midfield role at Boro|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/nathaniel-chalobah-chelsea-loan-star-6553884|publisher=Gazette Live|date=21 January 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} After missing four matches between late–October and late–November, he returned as a late substitute on 30 November 2013, in a 1–0 win over Bolton Wanderers.{{cite news|title=Match report: Boro 4 Doncaster Rovers 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/boro-4--doncaster-rovers-6238538|publisher=Gazette Live|date=25 October 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Match report: Boro 1 Bolton Wanderers 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/middlesbrough-fc-1-v-bolton-6355015|publisher=Gazette Live|date=30 November 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead scored his first and what turned out to be only goal for the club in a 2–1 loss away to Derby County on 4 December.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/25115731|title=Derby County 2–1 Middlesbrough|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 December 2013|access-date=19 August 2017}} Two weeks later, on 21 December, he captained Middlesbrough for the first time, in a 2–0 win over Millwall.{{cite news|title=John Powls: Three battles won for three points at Millwall|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/john-powls-three-battles-won-6441620|publisher=Gazette Live|date=23 December 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}} Later in the 2013–14 season, Whitehead was suspended on three occasions, including being sent–off for dissent, in a 1–0 loss against Sheffield Wednesday on 1 March.{{cite news|title='We haven't achieved anything yet': Aitor Karanka warns against Boro complacency|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aitor-karanka-warns-against-boro-6453244|publisher=Gazette Live|date=30 December 2013|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Match report: Sheffield Wednesday 1 Boro 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sheffield-wednesday-1-boro-0-6754569|publisher=Gazette Live|date=1 March 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=John Powls: Let's give the Riverside the same enjoyment Boro's away fans had last week|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/john-powls-lets-give-riverside-6920220|publisher=Gazette Live|date=4 April 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} Despite this, he remained in the first-team, where he captained the side four more times later in the season.{{cite news|title=John Powls: Most fans would point at Boro's slide to second half obscurity than QPR's luck|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/john-powls-most-fans-would-6868207|publisher=Gazette Live|date=24 March 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Reading 2–0 Middlesbrough|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/27030560|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 April 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Match report: Yeovil Town 1 Boro 4|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/yeovil-town-v-boro-match-7066545|publisher=Gazette Live|date=3 May 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead played 38 times and scored one goal in the 2013–14 season, as Middlesbrough finished in 12th-position.{{cite news|title=Yeovil Town 1–4 Middlesbrough|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/27167474|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 May 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
In the 2014–15 season, Whitehead continued to feature in the first team at the start of the season, mostly coming on as a substitute.{{cite news|title=Matchfile: Leeds United v Boro preview|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matchfile-leeds-united-v-boro-7619572|publisher=Gazette Live|date=15 August 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Simon Fallaha: Boro have been knocked out of their stride - can they recover?|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/simon-fallaha-boro-been-knocked-7637221|publisher=Gazette Live|date=19 August 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} This was due to added competition for the defensive midfield position with Richard Smallwood, Grant Leadbitter and Adam Clayton.{{cite news|title=Philip Tallentire: Here's what I think will be Aitor Karanka's post-transfer window starting XI|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/philip-tallentire-heres-what-think-7723790|publisher=Gazette Live|date=5 September 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Wolves boss Kenny Jackett believes Boro's squad depth can lead to promotion|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wolves-boss-kenny-jackett-believes-7972451|publisher=Gazette Live|date=21 October 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}{{cite news|title=Grant Leadbitter has had no further contract discussions with Boro, reveals Aitor Karanka|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/grant-leadbitter-no-further-contract-7991727|publisher=Gazette Live|date=24 October 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, in a 4–0 win over Brentford on 20 September, he was sent–off "for an over the top tackle", leading the referee giving him a straight red card.{{cite news|title=Match report: Boro 4 Brentford 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/match-report-boro-4-brentford-7799396|publisher=Gazette Live|date=20 September 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} After serving a three-match suspension, he returned to the first-team from suspension, coming on as a late substitute, in a 2–0 win over Fulham on 2 October.{{cite news|title=Karanka admits Dean Whitehead red card has caused problem in midfield|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/karanka-admits-dean-whitehead-red-7808070|publisher=Gazette Live|date=22 September 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Three points: What we learnt from Boro's 2-0 win over Fulham|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/three-points-what-learnt-boros-7884048|publisher=Gazette Live|date=5 October 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead captained the side for the first time in the league, in a 1–1 draw against Watford on 25 October.{{cite news|title=Three points: What we learnt from Boro's draw against Watford|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/three-points-what-learnt-boros-7999745|publisher=Gazette Live|date=26 October 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, throughout the 2014–15 season, Whitehead was demoted to the substitute bench.{{cite news|title=Aitor Karanka: 'At the moment I don't need to strengthen the squad, I am happy with the players'|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aitor-karanka-at-moment-dont-8186859|publisher=Gazette Live|date=27 November 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=How Adam Forshaw compares with Grant Leadbitter and Adam Clayton according to Opta stats|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/how-adam-forshaw-compares-grant-8534639|publisher=Gazette Live|date=28 January 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} But he did provide cover, playing twice at right–back{{cite news|title=Blackburn 0 Boro 0: Full time match report|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/blackburn-0-boro-0-full-8346797|publisher=Gazette Live|date=28 December 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead could step in as right-back at City if Tomas Kalas is unavailable|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/dean-whitehead-could-step-right-back-8497395|publisher=Gazette Live|date=25 January 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} and six times in central midfield.{{cite news|title=Reading 0 Boro 0: Full time match report|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/reading-0-boro-0-full-8414440|publisher=Gazette Live|date=10 January 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Philip Tallentire: My end of season report on every Boro player|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/philip-tallentire-end-season-report-9395163|publisher=Gazette Live|date=5 June 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} He also captained the side once again this season against Sheffield Wednesday on 28 February, which ended in a 2–0 defeat.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2 Boro 0: Full time match report|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sheffield-wednesday-2-boro-0-8734680|publisher=Gazette Live|date=28 February 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} In the Championship play-offs, Whitehead was featured three times as a right–back, including the play-off final at Wembley, where they lost 2–0 to Norwich City.{{cite news|title=Jonathon Taylor rates the players after Boro's superb 3-0 win over Brentford|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jonathon-taylor-rates-players-after-9267917|publisher=Gazette Live|date=15 May 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Brentford 1 Boro 2: Full time match report|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/brentford-1-boro-2-full-9216014|publisher=Gazette Live|date=8 May 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|first=Phil|last=Shepka|title=Middlesbrough 0–2 Norwich City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/32776552|publisher=BBC Sport|date=25 May 2015|access-date=19 August 2017}} Whitehead made twenty–five appearances in all competitions. At the end of the season, Whitehead left Middlesbrough as manager Aitor Karanka could not guarantee him game time.{{cite web |title=Aitor Karanka says he couldn't confirm that Dean Whitehead will play at Boro next season after the midfielder left the club|url=https://www.mfc.co.uk/news/aitor-karanka-says-he-couldnt-confirm-that-dean-whitehead-will-play-at-boro-next-season-after-the|publisher=Middlesbrough F.C.|date=28 May 2015|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114214759/https://www.mfc.co.uk/news/aitor-karanka-says-he-couldnt-confirm-that-dean-whitehead-will-play-at-boro-next-season-after-the|archive-date=14 November 2017|url-status=live}}
=Huddersfield Town=
In June 2015, Whitehead signed for Championship club Huddersfield Town on a two-year contract.{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead: Experienced midfielder joins Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33246865|publisher=BBC Sport|date=23 June 2015|access-date=19 August 2017}}
{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town make Dean Whitehead their first summer signing on two-year deal|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-make-dean-whitehead-9512009|publisher=Examiner Live|date=23 June 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} Upon joining the club, he was given a number four shirt ahead of the 2015–16 season.{{cite news|title=Who are the movers and shakers as Huddersfield Town announce squad numbers for 2015-16|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/who-movers-shakers-huddersfield-town-9720167|publisher=Examiner Live|date=24 July 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} He made his debut in a 2–0 defeat against Hull City at the KC Stadium on 8 August.{{cite news|title=FULL TIME: Hull City 2 Huddersfield Town 0 - Tigers too strong for Chris Powell's men|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/full-time-hull-city-2-9818252|publisher=Examiner Live|date=8 August 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} He captained Huddersfield Town for the first time on 11 August, in a 2–1 loss against Notts County.{{cite news|title=Disjointed Huddersfield Town crash out of Capital One Cup to League II Notts County after miserable second-half showing at John Smith's Stadium|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/disjointed-huddersfield-town-crash-out-9838335|publisher=Examiner Live|date=12 August 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead quickly established himself in the first-team under the management of Chris Powell.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town skipper Mark Hudson hails the Dean Whitehead effect|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-skipper-mark-hudson-9931999|publisher=Examiner Live|date=27 August 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dale Tempest: Dean Whitehead shows what Huddersfield Town need to prosper in the Skybet Championship|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/dale-tempest-dean-whitehead-shows-10311418|publisher=Examiner Live|date=23 October 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Reading FC v Huddersfield Town: Five factors that could swing the match for the Terriers|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-reading-fc-game-10373786|publisher=Examiner Live|date=3 November 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} He captained the side once again following Mark Hudson's absence for five matches between 12 September and 3 October.{{cite news|title=Chris Powell reveals who will skipper Huddersfield Town at Cardiff City|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/chris-powell-reveals-who-skipper-10035239|publisher=Examiner Live|date=12 September 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Former Middlesbrough man Dean Whitehead is doing a great job as Huddersfield Town captain says Chris Powell ahead of Bolton Wanderers game|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/former-middlesbrough-man-dean-whitehead-10079618|publisher=Examiner Live|date=18 September 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead enjoying short-term role as Huddersfield Town captain as Wolves visit looms|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/dean-whitehead-enjoying-short-term-10175493|publisher=Examiner Live|date=2 October 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead's performance saw him earned BWF Player of the Month for October and November.{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2015/november/whitehead-named-bwf-player-of-the-month/|title=WHITEHEAD NAMED BWF PLAYER OF THE MONTH|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=4 November 2015|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109225036/https://www.htafc.com/news/2015/november/whitehead-named-bwf-player-of-the-month/|archive-date=9 November 2018|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2015/december/bwf-player-of-the-month-double-for-dean/|title=BWF PLAYER OF THE MONTH DOUBLE FOR DEAN!|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=2 December 2015|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109224915/https://www.htafc.com/news/2015/december/bwf-player-of-the-month-double-for-dean/|archive-date=9 November 2018|url-status=live}} However, he suffered a knee injury during a 2–0 win over Birmingham City on 5 December and was sidelined for two months.{{cite news|title=Birmingham City 0 Huddersfield Town 2: Early Lolley strike fires Terriers to first win under Wagner|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/birmingham-city-0-huddersfield-town-10554621|publisher=Examiner Live|date=5 December 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town midfielder Dean Whitehead could be out for two months|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/huddersfield-town-midfielder-dean-whitehead-10565081|publisher=Examiner Live|date=8 December 2014|access-date=10 November 2018}} A month later, on 23 January, Whitehead returned to the first-team from injury, coming on as a late substitute in a 2–1 loss against Brighton & Hove Albion.{{cite news|title=Brighton 2 Huddersfield 1: Knockaert makes Town pay as Smith sees red|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/brighton-2-huddersfield-1-knockaert-10779300|publisher=Examiner Live|date=23 January 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Why it's been a big week for Huddersfield Town pair Dean Whitehead and Karim Matmour|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/its-been-big-week-huddersfield-10809085|publisher=Examiner Live|date=29 January 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} Since returning to the first-team, he regained his first-team place in the starting eleven for the rest of the season.{{cite news|title=We're looking up table, not down says Huddersfield Town's Dean Whitehead|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/were-looking-up-table-not-11096256|publisher=Examiner Live|date=27 March 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town's Dean Whitehead looking forward to Leeds United trip|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-towns-dean-whitehead-looking-11061819|publisher=Examiner Live|date=19 March 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Why Dean Whitehead deserves to be named Huddersfield Town Player of the Year|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/dean-whitehead-deserves-named-huddersfield-11185527|publisher=Examiner Live|date=14 April 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} By the end of the 2015–16 season, Whitehead went on to make thirty–six appearances in all competitions.
Ahead of the 2016–17 season, Whitehead turned down a move to Rotherham United and said he would fight for his place in the first-team.{{cite news|title=It's Huddersfield Town not Rotherham United for Dean Whitehead|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/its-huddersfield-town-not-rotherham-11636104|publisher=Examiner Live|date=19 July 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} He missed the first two matches of the new season after being suspended over his involvement in an incident against Brentford in the last game of the previous season.{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2016/may/fa-charges-whitehead-with-violent-conduct/|title=FA CHARGES WHITEHEAD WITH VIOLENT CONDUCT|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=12 May 2016|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109225121/https://www.htafc.com/news/2016/may/fa-charges-whitehead-with-violent-conduct/|archive-date=9 November 2018|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the season on 20 August, where he started the whole game of a 2–1 win over Barnsley.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 2-1 Barnsley: Late Jonathan Hogg goal sends fans into ecstasy|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/huddersfield-town-2-1-barnsley-11777987|publisher=Examiner Live|date=20 August 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, Whitehead struggled in the first-team under David Wagner, due to strong competition from other midfielders.{{cite news|title=Midfielder reveals key factors behind Huddersfield Town's bright early form|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/midfielder-reveals-key-factors-behind-11833685|publisher=Examiner Live|date=4 September 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Boss happy to see Huddersfield Town players 'find solution' after below-par performance|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/boss-happy-see-huddersfield-town-12091687|publisher=Examiner Live|date=28 October 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Did Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner find a Plan B at Nottingham Forest?|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-boss-david-wagner-12893436|publisher=Examiner Live|date=14 April 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} He captained the side for the first time this season, in a 2–1 win over Rotherham United on 27 September.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 2 Rotherham United 1: Town return to the top of the Championship|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/huddersfield-town-2-rotherham-united-11947557|publisher=Examiner Live|date=27 September 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} Due to Hudson's absence, Whitehead often stood in as captain, though Tommy Smith was another stand-in captain when Whitehead was not included in the starting eleven.{{cite news|title=David Wagner happy to have leaders at Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/david-wagner-happy-leaders-huddersfield-12156084|publisher=Examiner Live|date=10 November 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Team unity is crucial says Huddersfield Town defender|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/team-unity-crucial-says-huddersfield-12213490|publisher=Examiner Live|date=22 November 2016|access-date=10 November 2018}} Throughout the January transfer window, he stayed at the Kirklees Stadium after being linked with a move to Wigan Athletic.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town midfielder Dean Whitehead linked with Wigan Athletic|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-midfielder-dean-whitehead-12393452|publisher=Examiner Live|date=2 January 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Midfielder Dean Whitehead targets promotion hat trick with Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/midfielder-dean-whitehead-targets-promotion-12398491|publisher=Examiner Live|date=3 January 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, in a 1–0 loss against Burton Albion on 1 April, he was sent–off for a second bookable offence.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 0-1 Burton Albion|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39390888|publisher=BBC Sport|date=1 April 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} Whitehead later featured three times as an unused substitute in the Championship play–offs, as he was part of the squad that saw Huddersfield side promoted to the Premier League after beating Reading 5–4 in penalty shoot–out after a 0–0 draw in the EFL Championship play-off final.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 0–0 Reading AET (4–3 pens): Terriers promoted to Premier League|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/huddsfld-vs-reading/371811|publisher=Sky Sports|date=30 May 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Reading FC 0 Huddersfield Town 0: Town promoted to Premier League after penalty shootout|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/reading-fc-0-huddersfield-town-13109224|publisher=Examiner Live|date=29 May 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} By the end of the 2016–17 season, he went on to make twenty appearances in all competitions.
Ahead of the 2017–18 season, Huddersfield announced that Whitehead had extended his contract with the club until the end of the 2017–18 Premier League season, with manager David Wagner stating: "Even if he plays less for us, he is still a very important part of the team and our dressing room."{{Cite news|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2017/july/contract-extention-dean-whitehead/|title=Huddersfield Town CONTRACT EXTENSION: DEAN WHITEHEAD|access-date=2017-09-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181110202026/https://www.htafc.com/news/2017/july/contract-extention-dean-whitehead/|archive-date=10 November 2018|url-status=live}} He was included for the 25-man squad for the Premier League.{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2017/september/confirmed-towns-201718-premier-league-squad/|title=CONFIRMED: TOWN'S 2017/18 PREMIER LEAGUE SQUAD|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=1 September 2017|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181110202559/https://www.htafc.com/news/2017/september/confirmed-towns-201718-premier-league-squad/|archive-date=10 November 2018|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the 2017–18 season, where he started the whole game, in a 2–1 win over Rotherham United in the second round of the League Cup on 23 August.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 2–1 Rotherham United|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40944672|publisher=BBC Sport|date=23 August 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} Then, on 30 September, Whitehead made his first Premier League appearance – his first in four years – as a late substitute, in a 4–0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 0 – 4 Tottenham Hotspur|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/41370360|publisher=BBC Sport|date=30 September 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}} However, his first-team appearances at Huddersfield Town continued to be restricted to the substitute bench for most of the 2017–18 season.{{cite news|title=FEATURE: Who should replace Aaron Mooy for Huddersfield Town against Swansea City?|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/feature-who-should-replace-aaron-13754192|publisher=Examiner Live|date=12 October 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Where do Huddersfield Town need to strengthen in the January Transfer Window?|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/huddersfield-town-need-strengthen-january-14064286|publisher=Examiner Live|date=20 December 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead considering Huddersfield Town future as contract winds down|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/dean-whitehead-considering-huddersfield-town-14135734|publisher=Examiner Live|date=10 January 2018|access-date=10 November 2018}} On 11 May 2018, Whitehead announced his retirement from professional football at the end of the 2017–18 season.{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead: Huddersfield Town midfielder to retire to take on coaching role|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44081827|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 May 2018|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead looks forward to new chapter with Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/huddersfield-town/dean-whitehead-looks-forward-to-new-chapter-with-huddersfield-town-1-9171878|work=The Yorkshire Post|date=19 May 2018|access-date=10 November 2018}} He made his last appearance for the club (and his football career), coming on as a late substitute, in a 1–0 loss against Arsenal in the last game of the season.{{cite news|title=Huddersfield Town 0 – 1 Arsenal|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/4402015|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 May 2018|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Coaching career
Following his retirement, Whitehead took up a coaching role at Huddersfield Town as part of David Wagner's first-team technical staff, having earned a UEFA A coaching license, and took charge of the club's new Under-17 Academy age group from 1 January 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2018/may/dean-whitehead-to-move-into-coaching-at-town/|title=DEAN WHITEHEAD TO MOVE INTO COACHING AT TOWN|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=11 May 2018|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106221732/https://www.htafc.com/news/2018/may/dean-whitehead-to-move-into-coaching-at-town/|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=live}} By October, he took charge for Huddersfield Town's Under-17s side.{{cite web|url=https://www.htafc.com/news/2018/october/whitehead-steps-up-involvement-with-u17s/|title=WHITEHEAD STEPS UP INVOLVEMENT WITH U17s|publisher=Huddersfield Town A.F.C.|date=12 October 2018|access-date=10 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109225158/https://www.htafc.com/news/2018/october/whitehead-steps-up-involvement-with-u17s/|archive-date=9 November 2018|url-status=live}}
On 16 November 2019, Whitehead joined Sam Ricketts' backroom staff at League One side Shrewsbury Town, replacing Joe Parkinson as first-team coach.{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead: Shrewsbury Town appoint ex-Stoke midfielder as coach |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/50445554 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=16 November 2019|access-date=16 November 2019}} On 25 August 2020, Whitehead was promoted to assistant manager after the departure of Jon Pitts and Graham Barrow.{{cite news |url=https://www.shropshirestar.com/sport/football/shrewsbury-town-fc/2020/08/25/shake-up-at-shrewsbury-town-as-jon-pitts-and-graham-barrow-exit-with-dean-whitehead-promoted/ |title=Shake-up at Shrewsbury Town as Jon Pitts and Graham Barrow exit with Dean Whitehead promoted |last=Cox |first=Lewis |work=Shropshire Star |date=25 August 2020}} On 25 November, Whitehead and Ricketts were relieved of their duties with the club sitting 23rd in League One with just 9 points from a possible 39.{{cite news |url=https://www.shropshirestar.com/sport/football/shrewsbury-town-fc/2020/11/25/sam-ricketts-sacked-by-shrewsbury-town/ |title=Sam Ricketts sacked by Shrewsbury Town |date=2020-11-25 |last=Cox |first=Lewis |work=Shropshire Star Sport}}
Whitehead joined the coaching staff at League Two side Port Vale in July 2021 as part of director of football David Flitcroft's summer overhaul; manager Darrell Clarke said that Whitehead "is definitely someone our squad can look up to".{{cite news |title=Vale name Whitehead as first-team coach |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57730381 |access-date=7 July 2021 |work=BBC Sport |date=6 July 2021}} Having helped Vale to win promotion at the end of the 2021–22 season, he moved to Turkey in July 2022 to coach alongside Adam Murray at Süper Lig champions Beşiktaş.{{cite news |last1=Baggaley |first1=Michael |title=Port Vale close in on replacement as Dean Whitehead joins Besiktas |url=https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/port-vale-close-replacement-dean-7284331 |access-date=2 July 2022 |work=StokeonTrentLive |date=2 July 2022 |language=en}} He left the club when head coach Valérien Ismaël was sacked three months later.{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Peter |title=Dean Whitehead sends message to Besiktas as 'incredible chapter' ends |url=https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/dean-whitehead-besiktas-vale-stoke-7753320 |access-date=27 October 2022 |work=StokeonTrentLive |date=27 October 2022 |language=en}} He joined Cardiff City as a first-team coach in November 2022.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Glen |title=Cardiff to add ex-Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Stoke man to backroom staff |url=https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cardiff-city-add-ex-sunderland-25421259 |access-date=3 November 2022 |work=WalesOnline |date=2 November 2022 |language=en}} Following the sacking of Mark Hudson on 14 January 2023, Whitehead was placed in interim charge of the first-team at Cardiff City.{{cite news |title=Club Statement {{!}} 14/01/23 {{!}} Cardiff |url=https://www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk/news/club-statement-140123 |access-date=16 January 2023 |work=www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk |date=14 January 2023 |language=en}} In the 2023 pre-season, Ismaël was appointed manager at Championship side Watford, and Whitehead moved to work there with him as assistant head coach.{{cite news |title=News: Whitehead, Riza & Riley Join First-Team Backroom Staff |url=https://www.watfordfc.com/news/news-whitehead-riza-riley-join-first-team-backroom-staff |access-date=18 June 2023 |work=Watford F.C. |date=18 June 2023 |language=en}} He joined Barnsley as a first-team coach in July 2024, working again with Darrell Clarke.{{cite news |title=Dean Whitehead joins Barnsley as coach |url=https://www.barnsleychronicle.com/article/28979/dean-whitehead-joins-barnsley-as-coach |access-date=25 July 2024 |work=Barnsley Chronicle |date=24 July 2024 |language=en}} He returned to Stoke City in September 2024 to link back up with Narcís Pèlach.{{cite web |title=Narcís Pèlach appointed by Potters |url=https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/2024/september/18/narcis-pelach-appointed-by-potters/ |website=Stoke City |access-date=18 September 2024}}{{cite web |title=Dean Whitehead joins Stoke City |url=https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2024/september/18/dean-whitehead-joins-stoke-city/ |website=Barnsley FC |access-date=18 September 2024}} He left his position at Stoke in January 2025.{{cite web |title=Potters' First Team coaching staff confirmed |url=https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/2025/january/02/potters-first-team-coaching-staff-confirmed/ |website=Stoke City |access-date=2 January 2025}} He joined Blackburn Rovers as an assistant head coach the following month after Ismaël was appointed as manager.{{cite news |title=Dean Whitehead joins as Assistant Head Coach |url=https://www.rovers.co.uk/news/2025/february/26/dean-whitehead-joins-as-assistant-head-coach/ |access-date=26 February 2025 |work=Blackburn Rovers FC |date=26 February 2025}}
Personal life
Growing up, Whitehead was raised in a football-loving family and supported Liverpool.{{cite news|title=Family feud distracts Dean|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/family-feud-distracts-dean-1593074|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=13 October 2005|access-date=10 November 2018}} He has a brother, Craig. During his time at Huddersfield Town, he was known as 'Whitesey' by his teammate Tommy Smith, who gave him a nickname.{{cite news|title=These are the Huddersfield Town heroes making their way to Wembley|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/huddersfield-town-heroes-making-way-13103614|publisher=Examiner Live|date=28 May 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
He is good friends with Liam Lawrence, having been Sunderland and Stoke City teammates.{{cite news|title=Lawrence 'devastated' not to face Sunderland|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/whitehead-urges-black-cats-attack-1476686|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=28 October 2008|access-date=10 November 2018}} During his time at Stoke City and Huddersfield Town, Whitehead resided in Cheshire with his wife, Louise, and their two sons, Olly and Harry.{{cite news|title=Dean Whitehead pleads 'exceptional hardship' as he looks to avoid driving ban|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/dean-whitehead-pleads-exceptional-hardship-9901792|publisher=Gazette Live|date=21 August 2015|access-date=10 November 2018}}
{{cite news|title=Dad's the word as Huddersfield Town's Dean Whitehead turns back clock to put Manchester City stars in shade|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/huddersfield-town/dad-s-the-word-as-huddersfield-town-s-dean-whitehead-turns-back-clock-to-put-manchester-city-stars-in-shade-1-8398497|work=The Yorkshire Post|date=20 February 2017|access-date=10 November 2018}}
Career statistics
{{notelist}}
Honours
Sunderland
Stoke City
Huddersfield Town
- EFL Championship play-offs: 2017{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39995791 |title=Huddersfield Town 0–0 Reading |first=Ian |last=Woodcock |publisher=BBC Sport |date=29 May 2017 |access-date=26 May 2018}}
Individual
- Oxford United F.C. Player of the Season: 2003–04
- Sunderland A.F.C. Player of the Year: 2005–06
- PFA Team of the Year: 2006–07 Championship
References
{{reflist}}
{{commons category}}
{{Navboxes
| title = Awards
| bg = gold
| fg = navy
| list1 =
{{Oxford United F.C. Player of the Year}}
{{Sunderland A.F.C. Player of the Year}}
{{2006–07 Football League Championship Team of the Year}}
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Whitehead, Dean}}
Category:People from Abingdon-on-Thames
Category:Sportspeople from Oxfordshire
Category:English men's footballers
Category:Men's association football midfielders
Category:Oxford United F.C. players
Category:Sunderland A.F.C. players
Category:Stoke City F.C. players
Category:Middlesbrough F.C. players
Category:Huddersfield Town A.F.C. players
Category:English Football League players
Category:Premier League players
Category:Huddersfield Town A.F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Shrewsbury Town F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Port Vale F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Beşiktaş J.K. non-playing staff
Category:Cardiff City F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Watford F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Barnsley F.C. non-playing staff
Category:Stoke City F.C. non-playing staff