Kevin Watson says he plans to tap into the knowledge of his former Colchester United boss Phil Parkinson after landing his first-ever managerial job.

The ex-U’s favourite has taken charge of Ryman League division one north side Maldon and Tiptree, where he has succeeded Alan Kimble in the hot seat.

Watson will combine the role with a new full-time coaching position at Colchester, which begins at the start of next season.

The 41-year-old enjoyed a successful playing career which started at Tottenham Hotspur and took him to the likes of Colchester, Swindon Town and Rotherham United.

And as he prepares to embark on his first managerial job, former playmaker Watson is keen to chat to some of the bosses who had a big influence on his own playing career.

Watson said: “I’ll be giving the likes of Parky and Geraint Williams a call and also Ronnie Moore, who worked wonders at Hartlepool United to keep them up.

“I’ll definitely be calling up people who I’ve worked under and having a chat with them.

“It’s a different level but the fundamentals of being a manager are still the same.

“I’ll take on board any tips that they can give me, because you have to tap into the knowledge of people like that.

“You have to learn and start somewhere and I’ll be asking for any tips they have, because the little details can make big details.”

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