RICKY Duncan has been promoted to director of football at Southend United.

Academy manager Duncan was assistant manager for the final six games of last season following the return of boss Phil Brown.

And Duncan is pleased to be taking up a new role at Roots Hall.

"I was looking for more of a challenge and I’m happy to help the club,” said Duncan.

"After speaking with the chairman, and having been at the club for 16 years, I felt like I had more to offer.

"It’s been nice to help Ron (Martin) and especially Phil in terms of highlighting targets, helping to secure them and negotiating with players and their agents which is not new to me.

"I‘ve been wanting to do it at a senior level and now I’ve been given that opportunity I’m looking forward to working closely with the chairman and manager to help get the club back to where it belongs.

"But I will continue to oversee the academy to ensure that the club are still producing players and there is a pathway into the first team."

Brown worked closely alongside Duncan during his first spell in charge of the Shrimpers.

And he is pleased to see Duncan being given a new role.

"As long as I’ve been at the football club Ricky has helped me in all areas, so I’m absolutely delighted with his appointment,” said Brown.

"Between the chairman, myself and Ricky I can see progress in the way we’re thinking about things and piecing the jigsaw together with regards to getting a good strong squad together that is going to challenge for honours next season."