DANNY Cleare will begin his spell as Southend Saxons’ interim director of rugby this weekend.

Southend head to Chichester for a National Three London & SE clash.

And Cleare - who was confirmed in his new post earlier this week - is keen to get off to a good start.

“Chichester have a similar record to us and it is a long trip so we’re expecting a tough match but it’s one we are excited about at the same time,” said the 29-year-old.

“We as players know we haven’t performed to what we are capable of this season and we are motivated to put that right as soon as possible.”

Cleare - who has played on the wing and at full-back this season - will still be lining up for the Saxons despite his added responsibilities.

And he remains shocked to be in charge.

“I was surprised to be asked as I am still playing but I’m very honoured and have had nothing but supportive messages from people,” said Cleare.

“I’ll be looking to build on Chris Green’s previous good work and I’ll be working closely with (coach) Nick Greenhall and the team to try and improve.

“But I am also involved in the mini and youth section and will try and ensure that that continues to grow and be successful so it’s about more than just the first team for me.”

Southend were relegated from National Two South last term and have also endured an indifferent start to the current campaign.

As a result, Saxons sit ninth in the table with three wins from six games.

But Cleare is keen to improve that record with another victory this weekend.

And Southend will be heading into the game boosted by the return of some important players.

“We have a few key players back this weekend,” said Cleare, who is also the director of rugby at the highly respected Seevic College.

“We are certainly stronger than in our previous game and having a week off has allowed certain individuals a rest who were carrying a few knocks and injuries.”

Southend edged past Colchester 18-16 last time out in their first game since Green decided to step down as the club’s director of rugby after six years in charge.

And Cleare remains disappointed by Green’s departure.

“Obviously it is sad to see Chris go as he brought me to the club and I have played with and for him during that time,” said Cleare, who joined Southend from Rochford Hundred.

“We are close friends away from rugby and I wish him every success in the future.

“This is going to be a new challenge for me now and this is a great club with a great history to be a part of.

“Stepping into the role in the interim is therefore something that I am really looking forward to.”

Cleare’s first opponents, Chichester, are 11th in the table and have lost four of their six games so far this season.

However, the West Sussex based club have triumphed in both of their home games this term and will be looking to extend that unbeaten run at their own ground.

Southend have been beaten in two of their three away games this term but will be looking to start their new regime in style.

“It would be great to get underway with a win but we know it will be a tough afternoon,” added Cleare.