Tilson named new head coach at South Essex College

Tilson bossed Blues to two successive promotions and victory against Manchester United during his seven years in charge of the club he also made more than 270 appearances for as a player.

And the 51-year-old is excited by his new role.

“I’m looking forward to building the Academy up,” said Tilson, who still manages C&K Basildon Ladies.

“Individually I want to make each player the best footballer they can be and it’s exciting to be involved in.

“Whatever division they may go on to play in they all need to have confidence in their abilities.

“That’s something we’ll definitely be working on and I’m really looking forward to getting started now.

“I want to help these young players fulfill their potential and do the very best they can.

“That’s what we will be working towards.”

And Tilson will also be calling on his footballing contacts to offer those in the academy extra opportunities.

“Hopefully we’ll have ex-professional players coming in to chat with the players,” said the former midfielder.

“It would be great to get them in to talk about their own experiences and to answer any questions the players might have as they set off on their own careers.

“I can also use my links in the game to work with certain members of the squad so they can realise their full potential in football.”

Tilson - who also had spells in charge of Lincoln City and Canvey Island - holds the UEFA Pro-Licence, the highest coaching qualification in the country and will now be aiming to put that into good use at South Essex College.

The Football Academy Level Three Extended Diploma helps prepare students for a career in the sporting world.

Students learn sport psychology, coaching, fitness and nutrition with a football focus.

Players will be training at an advanced level within the National League under 19 Alliance.

>For more details on the South Essex College’s Football Academy and how to join visit southessex.ac.uk/enrol for more details.