Former Southend United defender Mark Beard has been named director of youth at Spanish Third Division side San Pedro.
Viva Espana! - former Southend full-back Mark Beard is taking up a coaching post in Spain
The gritty full back made 151 appearances for the Shrimpers in three separate stints at Roots Hall before making another return to non league Kingstonian.
But, after just one season back with the K's, Beard has swapped the rigours of the Kingsmead Stadium for more sunnier shores following a chance meeting while away on holiday.
"I went over to Spain for a bit of a break and went to watch one of their games with my son," recalled the 29-year-old.
"Whilst I was there I got talking to someone who told me there were a few coaching vacancies and I ended up meeting the club president, which is their version of a chairman.
"He was impressed with what I had to offer, I've been back out there again now and I can't wait to get started in the job."
Published Friday July 2, 2004
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