Former Colchester United defender Nicky Haydon has told of his delight at being handed his first coaching role.

The 24-year-old has been appointed player-coach of Ryman League division one north side Wivenhoe Town.

The news was announced to Wivenhoe committee members on Thursday night.

Haydon fills the gap left by Mick Potter, who quit as joint-manager of the Dragons a fortnight ago.

The versatile Barking-born star, who signed for Wivenhoe from Braintree earlier this year, said he jumped at the chance to be Steve Pitt's new number two.

He told the Evening Gazette: "Steve wanted me to get more involved in the management side of things and be a link with the players.

"Especially so after Mick's departure. He needed someone new and I didn't have to think about it too much."

Haydon was an apprentice at Layer Road and made 38 first-team appearances for the U's before being released in 1999.

He has since enjoyed spells at Kettering, Heybridge Swifts, twice, and Chelmsford City

Published Monday, June 16, 2003

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