STEVE Tilson is again teaming up with Danny Greaves, 27 years after the same combination launched his professional football career.

Tilson was recommended to then Blues boss David Webb by Greaves in 1989 when they played together in the same Witham Town team.

But Tilson and Greaves have now combined to create their own footballing academy.

And they hope their partnership can again prove to be successful.

“We’re really excited to have got this academy up and running,” said Tilson who spent seven years in charge of Blues before leaving Roots Hall after the 2009/10 season.

“I’m having to be patient in pursuit of another managerial job and it’s difficult because there are a lot of people going for not many jobs.

“But myself and Danny have both worked in youth football and academies and we feel we can offer a lot to young players in the area.”

The academy will kick off on Saturday March 24 at the Fords Sports and Social Club in Gardiners Close, Basildon.

The coaching sessions will then be held on Saturdays as well as Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights for both girls and boys aged between five and 16.

Separate training will also be available for goalkeepers with 12 sessions costing just £90.

However, Greaves – who himself played and coached at Southend United during his own career – was keen to stress they were not looking to poach talented young players from other clubs.

“It’s not about taking players, we just want to help improve them,” said Greaves.

“At the moment a lot of Sunday League sides are coached by a dad of one of the players but with our experience and coaching badges we feel we can offer a bit more.

“We’re both local and have always been involved in football so we’re looking forward to getting this started now.”

The courses will be attended by a number of former and current professional players who will be helping with the coaching sessions.

The academy is also being sponsored by Puma and more details can be seen online at www.tillyandgreavsiefootballacademy.com