Southend United manager Kieron Dyer has promised to stick with an attacking playing style as his team builds on a strong start to the season. The Shrimpers are third in the National League with 17 points from eight matches, having won five and drawn two.
Dyer, in his first managerial role after a playing career with Ipswich, Newcastle and England, has overseen a side that has scored 17 goals so far. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one defeat from the last five outings. The 47-year-old is keen to manage expectations while maintaining the positive momentum generated at Roots Hall.
"In the worst possible way, winning three games to start off was a bad kind of thing because everybody gets a bit giddy and 'we're going to win the league'," Dyer said. He added that while he wants belief, realism is needed: "I want everyone to think we have a great chance to win the league, but you've got to remember we are a really new team, with new coaching staff and new ways of playing."
Southend's three home performances this term have shown good control and exciting football, yielding six points from a possible nine. This follows the disappointment of last season's play-off defeat. A recent 3-1 victory over Tamworth, with goals from L. Chambers-Parillon, P. Omochere and S. Austin, exemplified the approach Dyer favours.
Looking ahead, the focus remains on implementing his methods consistently. The squad list shows the blend of experience and new faces he is working with. Supporters can check the upcoming fixtures as the team aims to stays near the top of the standings. Dyer's immediate task is to ensure the early promise translates into a sustained challenge over the full campaign.
The original report is at bbc.com
