TES Bramble would often lead the line while at Southend United.

But the former Shrimpers striker is now leading a star studded side of his own.

The 39-year-old – who scored 38 goals in 172 games during a four year spell – now manages Whitton United’s veterans team close to his Ipswich home.

And Bramble is in charge of quite some squad.

“Titus (Bramble) plays and so does Kieron Dyer, Ruel Fox, Carlos Edwards , Danny Potter, Ashley Nicholls plus Shane Wardley who was with me at Southend,” said Bramble.

“We’ve only lost once in the three years I’ve been in charge.”

Bramble’s day job sees him working on the roads while he also runs his own company called X9 Promotions.

“We put nights on in bars and clubs as well as sorting weddings and private parties,” said Bramble.

“But I live a chilled family life with my fiancée and two kids now and it’s great.”

However, football remains a real passion for Bramble and he is still thankful Blues handed him an opportunity to impress in the Football League.

“I’m still thankful to David Webb and Southend for giving me the opportunity to play professional football as that was always my aim and goal,” said Bramble.

“After being released from Ipswich, I went to Chelmsford City as Brian Honeywood was like a father and mentor to me and had a connection with them.

“I was playing in the first team at 17.

“And when I was 18 I had scored 20 goals by Christmas which got me trials back at Ipswich along with Norwich, Tottenham and Tranmere Rovers.

“No moves materialised but luckily Southend came in.”

And Bramble relished his spell at Roots Hall where he was between 2001 and 2005.

“I loved my time there and have some great memories,” said the ex forward.

“The highlights were obviously the two LDV Vans Trophy finals games at the Millennium Stadium and, in particular, our play-off win.

“I remember we also had wins against both Canvey Island and Colchester United who were massive rivals at the time.

“I was fortunate enough to score against them both and knowing how happy that made the fans and the club as a whole was pleasing.”

Bramble left Blues in 2005 and still feels he did not achieve what he could have done during his career.

“Unfortunately I was released but I think at Southend, along with the rest of my career, I never fulfilled my potential and that was through no fault of my own,” said Bramble.

“But again I loved every minute at Southend and I still look out for their results.

“They still have a huge place in my heart and I wish them all the best going through what’s a difficult time.”

After leaving Blues, Bramble went on to play for Stockport County and Stevenage before deciding to retire.