JAMES Paviour said making Dan Trenkel co-manager of Catholic United was a ‘no-brainer’.

The former Great Wakering Rovers boss joined the Southend-based team last season and helped them into the Olympian Premier Division, while also winning the Essex Premier Cup.

And the two old school friends are looking forward to the new campaign.

“Everyone knows what Dan is about and he was adding so much value,” said Paviour.

“Based on his input on and off the pitch it makes sense. He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the teams we are playing and I hope he can help us in our aim of becoming a leading local non-league side.

“Making Dan joint manager is a signal of intent. We are on the same page and that is why it is an easy decision.”

And Trenkel, who was in the year below Paviour at Southend High School for Boys, echoed these views.

“James approached me at the back end of last season and said he was wondering if I was interested,” he said.

“I was heavily involved last season and was helping out unofficially.

“It will work,” he added. “We were doing it last year and we have very similar opinions. In terms of recruitment, we have spoken to a few players.

“I don’t think we have to look at many. We had a strong side last year and the consistency was the issue.

“We are looking at some younger guys but also those with experience.

“It is an exciting time to be involved with this club.”