DANNY Heath will be in charge of Southend United’s under 18 side this season.

The 32-year-old has been coaching at the Shrimpers since 2008.

And he is delighted to be stepping into his biggest role so far with Blues.

“It’s very pleasing,” said Heath.

“I came in here as a part time coach in September 2008 and I became full time in July 2013.

“I’ve worked with all of the age-groups from the nines up to the 16s and now I’m with the youth team in the 18s.”

Heath has been working with the older age group since the start of pre-season training.

And he is already enjoying the new role.

“It’s more hands on and there’s more coaching on a day to day basis,” said Heath.

“The other jobs were admin during the day and a lot of organisation before coaching in the evening.

“This is more hands on but I’m enjoying it.”

Heath has taken control of another talented young group at Blues.

But, due to his previous roles, he already knows all about their talents.

“Most of the group have come through the system and many of them have been here since the under nines so I’ve known them a long time,” said Heath.

“I’ve worked with most of them at some point and they’re a good group.

“They’re hardworking and they set themselves high standards which is what we want.

“They’re talented and they have potential but it’s all down to how hard they work now and how much they want to push on.”

Blues’ youngsters start their league campaign away at Luton Town this weekend.

But Heath is looking forward to the tough opening fixture.

“It’s the first league game on Saturday but we always have good games against Luton,” said Heath.

“They’re tough opposition but they’re the games you want because you want to test yourself.

“It will definitely be a competitive start but it’s a game we look forward to and we’re excited to get started.”

Heath, who grew up watching Blues, is also keen to get going and is keen to keep on helping those around to produce more players for the Shrimpers first team.

“I support Southend but this is my job and that’s how I have to look at it,” said Heath.

“My job is to hopefully help with the other staff in the academy and get players through to the first team. That’s the ultimate aim.”

Blues have seen a number of young players push on in recent seasons with Elvis Bwomono, Dru Yearwood and Nathan Bishop having all featured for the first team.