Keates, who came up against the then-Boreham Wood striker while he was in charge of National league outfit Wrexham, admitted that he was impressed with the 23-year-old, but never thought he would be able to meet his true valuation.
However, following the collapse of his proposed move to Tranmere Rovers, it was confirmed that Ferrier had a release clause of just £35,000 and Keates knew he had to pounce, and, despite believing the striker would end up higher in the football pyramid, was soon able to get his man.
Speaking via the Express & Star, Dean said; "I think the fans saw what Ferrier is about on Saturday. He is a great investment for the club and I think he will do well going forward. I’ve been on the opposite side to him as a manager.
"He’s somebody I’ve always thought about. But if I’m entirely honest it wasn’t until 10 days ago when it broke about his buyout clause that I believed that we would get anywhere near his valuation because I think the lad will go on higher."
Dean then went on to discuss the differences between Ferrier and Cook, praising Morgan for dropping to the non-league game in order to rebuild his career, the gaffer continued; "Morgan is bit different to Cooky – he’s had an upbringing. He’s been through Arsenal’s academy, gone to Watford and Nottingham Forest but it’s not happened for him and he’s gone back into non-league. He’s rebuilt himself and gone again. He’s got a hunger and a desire.
"I could have gone and got somebody who has played a lot higher up but I’d question the hunger and desire as those players can just be looking for money and their next contract. These two are hungry and desperate to do well and we are giving them a platform. They showed that against Plymouth but it’s just the first game so we won’t get carried away."