Legend To Make Roots Hall Return?

In a brief statement on the club’s official website, www.southendunited.co.uk, Southend United Football Club have confirmed that the Shrimpers are indeed in talks with the former England striker, but stress that no appointment has yet been made. Geoffrey King has told the BBC Sport website, www.bbc.co.uk/sport, that, “We are in talks with Stan Collymore, although it is early days”. Last week the Shrimpers deputy chairman told the club website, “It won’t be too long before the situation has been filled on a permanent basis. As supporters all we can ask you to do is to continue to support the club in that way in which you have and watch this space!”.

Earlier in the day, the Daily Telegraph published a story written by John Percy speculating over the possibilty of a return for the Southend legend, who netted eighteen times in his 33-match saty with United in 1993. Percy wrote that Collymore “could be appointed as early as next Wednesday following a week of secret talks”. It is believed that former Leicester City teammate Steve Walsh is being lined up as his assistant.

David Webb has been in control of the club on a caretaker basis, and he could still remain involved in an advisory capacity, banded as the Director of Football role – a term that he is loathed to repeat. A change could be made before the Shrimpers cruch Sky Sports tie against Canvey Island in the F.A. Cup first round replay on Wednesday evening. It is yet to be established what role Steve Tilson would be given in the new set-up, but he should remain in his current Director of Youth Football position.

We at The Little Gazette will, of course, bring you more news on this story as we get it.

Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com