National League side Southend United have turned to ex-England international Kieron Dyer as their new head coach. The 47-year-old, who previously lined up for Ipswich Town, Newcastle United, and the Three Lions, takes on his first senior managerial role after coaching stints at Ipswich and Chesterfield.
Dyer leaves his position as first-team coach at League Two’s Chesterfield to succeed Kevin Maher, who was dismissed on 19 May – just two days after Southend’s FA Trophy final victory over Wealdstone at Wembley. Maher had been at the helm since 2021, guiding the Shrimpers to back‑to‑back National League play‑offs, including last June’s final loss to Oldham Athletic.
Dyer, who underwent a life‑saving liver transplant in 2023 due to a rare illness, has signed a two‑year contract at Roots Hall, with an option for a third year. “Southend are the biggest club in this league and belong in the Football League,” he told the club’s website. “I’m really excited to get started and help take them back where they should be.”
He added: “I’ve been soaking up knowledge from top managers. We’ll fear nobody – we want to dominate the ball and play with high intensity. That’s non‑negotiable.”
A club statement praised his “coaching credentials, leadership, tactical understanding, and commitment to player development,” while director of football Oliver Gage noted: “What stood out was his clarity of thought. He knows what promotion from the National League looks like, understands the level and the area, and has a genuine desire to keep improving.”
Dyer will work alongside Gage and new head of recruitment Jonathan Duckett. The rest of his backroom staff will be announced in due course.
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