Kieron Dyer lands first job in management

Former Newcastle United midfielder has taken the next step in his football career after being named manager of Southend United.

Kieron Dyer spent the best part of eight years on Tyneside. The dynamic midfielder was in and out of the England set-up during that time and was quite a controversial figure at Newcastle.

On his day, Dyer was unplayable. One of the best English midfielders of his day, but a questionable attitude and a lack of consistency marred his time on Tyneside.

Nothing put a bigger black mark on his Newcastle career than the on-field punch-up with teammate Lee Bowyer in a game against Aston Villa.

Dyer was also a key figure in the sacking of Sir Bobby Robson at Newcastle after refusing to play on the right flank when asked and has since expressed his regret over the way he reacted and the subsequent fallout.

Former Mag secures first head coach role

After leaving Newcastle, Dyer went on to play for West Ham, which included a return to Ipswich on loan, before moving to QPR and then Middlesbrough.

Dyer has had a few coaching roles, but on Monday he was announced as the new head coach of National League side Southend United. 

Speaking to the media, Dyer said he was proud and privileged to be given the opportunity.

“I’m really proud and privileged. Southend are the biggest club in the National League and deserve to be a league club. 

"I’m really excited to get started and hopefully get this club into the Football League, where it belongs. I’ve been a sponge absorbing all the knowledge around me and seeing how top managers have worked. 

"There’s so many ways to play this game and so to get different ideas and apply them to my philosophy can only help in the long-run."

Good luck to Kieron Dyer and Matt Ritchie

Dyer's news was announced on the same day as Bournemouth confirmed the return of Matt Ritchie to the Vitality as the ex-Newcastle winger took up the role of Technical Director.

It was an interesting day for a couple of former Magpies, and we wish them every success in their new roles.

We're a bit gutted that we couldn't find a role for Matt Ritchie at Newcastle. It would have been good to have him back around the place.