SOUTHEND United are in talks with a head of recruitment who would not look at out of place at Manchester City, says Stan Collymore.

The former Blues striker is set to be named head of footballing operations at Roots Hall.

But Collymore is keen to help the Shrimpers being in more top quality members of staff.

“We’re talking to a head of recruitment that interviewed exceptionally and all of the guys agreed with that,” said Collymore.

“He has incredible qualifications on the grass and in general.

“He’s built organisations up from the ground and has built football businesses from the ground up too.

“We’re having ongoing discussions with him.

“If we get it over the line, I’ll be going on social media and saying this is what the guy has done and you’ll be going if that was Manchester City it would make sense.

“But I can get him to Southend United.

“He wants to come here because he trusts me.”

“The club has interviewed him and I want you to have the very best people, not the 10th pick of a loanee.

“We need to be at the front and we will be at the front.”