Move over Kevin Keegan, forget Alex Ferguson, and as for Arsene Wenger - he's got no chance!

In fact, the new prospective boss for Southend United lives within a goal-kick of Roots Hall and is ready, willing and available to take over the hotseat.

Don't take our word for it - just ask Michael Brennan. He's the man who reckons he has the right credentials to revive Blues' flagging fortunes.

The 29-year-old of the Kursaal Estate, Southend, has applied for the job after Alvin Martin decided to quit following a turbulent 20 months in charge.

Michael is boss of the Leigh Rockets under-13 team and has seen the club's success grow since he took over the reins at the beginning of the season. He claims he can use his experience with the Rockets to take Southend to the top.

Michael said: "The Rockets have gone from the bottom of the table to seventh in the Southend District League.

"Even though I am not a professional, I think I could bring Southend success."

Michael, who is retired due to ill health, said: "I feel I would be more committed to the club than anyone else.

"I have got the time and can build it up to where it should be. The club has a lot of talent."

Michael is a keen supporter of Southend United and goes to nearly every game. He has sent a letter of application to the club and is awaiting a response.

He said: "I thought I should try my luck. I know more about the club than some of the others who have said they are interested in the job."

Posting his application - Michael is ready for Southend's top football job

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.