FORMER Southend United centre-back Spencer Prior is the new assistant manager of Australian outfit Manley United.

The ex Blues defender, who also played for Norwich and Manchester City, emigrated after opting to hang up his boots at the end of the 2006/07 season.

And he will now work alongside head coach Phil Moss during his side’s forthcoming NSW Premier League campaign.

“It’s a fantastic support staff for me and I know the players will respond to him in a very positive way,” said Moss.

“Spencer had an incredible playing career and the experience and knowledge he brings to the table will be invaluable. He is halfway through his AFC/FFA A-Licence too so he is serious about his coaching which suits me down to the ground.”

Prior, who made 245 appearances for Southend in two separate spells at the club, had been working as a pundit on Fox Sports’ coverage of the English Premier League.

But the 37-year-old has now decided to put something else back into the game and Moss believes the former Greensward School pupil will prove to be a real success in his new role.

“Spencer fought for his livelihood as a player in a tough place like England and I think our young players will flock to him for advice like bees to honey,” he said.

“We pride ourselves on being as professional a club as we can be at a semi-professional level and players must understand that being a professional footballer is not a tag – it’s a right you have to earn every day of your playing career.”