Falkirk sign Posh defender Holden

Dean Holden has been at Peterborough since summer 2005

Falkirk have signed 27-year-old right-back Dean Holden from Peterborough for an undisclosed fee.

Holden passed a medical but is unavailable for Monday's meeting with Dundee United as his registration has not come through from the English FA.

Falkirk head coach John Hughes told his club website: "We have been tracking the player for some time.

"He fits the bill as player who is a real leader on and off the park and he comes to us at the peak of his career."

Holden began his career with Bolton Wanderers, but he only made 21 appearances and moved to Oldham Athletic in 2002 after a successful loan spell.

He became a regular at Boundary Park before moving on to Peterborough in June 2005.

It was obvious he wanted to play at a higher level Peterborough director of football Barry Fry

"We are delighted to have concluded business with Peterborough United, where I know he was highly rated," said Hughes.

"All my contacts down south have been very complimentary about his ability and character."

Peterborough director of football Barry Fry accepted that Holden's ambition lay above Coca-Cola League Two.

"Dean Holden has agreed personal terms and completed his medical," Fry told his club's official website.

"I offered Dean a new contract several months ago, but he didn't sign.

"And, after speaking to his agent, it was obvious he wanted to play at a higher level.

"We didn't want to stand in his way. I would like to thank Dean for his contribution and wish him all the best in his career.

"He has been a good servant to this football club."