Stan Collymore is set to be named as Southend United's new player-manager - with Lee Sharpe on the coaching team.
The former Blues striking star has been in talks at Roots Hall over the past few days and it is thought a deal is close to being struck.
If Collymore does come in, with former Leicester team-mate Steve Walsh as assistant, ex-Manchester United and England star Sharpe is expected to complete the management team.
While speculation about Collymore's appointment is reaching fever pitch, a club source insists no announcement will be made before tonight's FA Cup clash at Canvey, but the dream team of Collymore, Walsh and Sharpe is expected to be unveiled soon.
Meanwhile, Shrimpers skipper Kevin Maher is expected to be fit for the eagerly-anticipated first round replay.
The midfielder was stretchered off against the Gulls during the first clash at Roots Hall but should start.
In contrast, Canvey are expected to field an unchanged side -- although they could employ a change in tactics to quell the danger of the main goal threat from the original 1-1 tie -- winger Mark Gower.
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Published Wednesday November 19, 2003
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