Southend United have made a perfect start to the National League season under new head coach Kieron Dyer, winning all three of his opening matches in charge. The club currently sits third in the table with nine points from four games, just three points behind leaders Sutton United, according to the latest standings.
Dyer, appointed in June for his first managerial role, has overseen a strong opening period. The team has scored eight goals and conceded five, giving them a positive goal difference of three. This early form represents a significant boost for a club that has spent five years outside the Football League.
Kieron Dyer took over at Roots Hall following the dismissal of club legend Kevin Maher after an end-of-season review. Maher had guided Southend to their first ever domestic trophy, the FA Trophy, in May at Wembley, but the board opted for a change. Dyer, a former Ipswich, Newcastle and England midfielder, arrived with coaching experience from Ipswich Town and Chesterfield.
He admitted to having self-doubts before the season began. "The responsibility you have of the team, the club, the office staff. I feel that I have to represent them right," Dyer told reporters. He credits Chesterfield boss Paul Cook with convincing him he was ready for management, and he now believes his emotional approach is a strength, not a weakness.
Southend United's current position is a stark contrast to recent struggles. The club suffered a second successive relegation in the 2020-21 season, dropping out of the top four divisions for the first time in 101 years. Last season brought more heartbreak, as they finished sixth and lost in the play-off semi-finals to Scunthorpe United.
The most painful blow came in June 2025, when they lost the National League play-off final 3-2 to Oldham after extra-time, despite twice taking the lead. That defeat extended their exile from the EFL, making this season's promotion goal even more urgent. Dyer has recruited ten new players over the summer to strengthen the squad for the challenge ahead.
The immediate aim is clear. Kieron Dyer's stated goal is promotion back to the EFL, and he believes Southend is the biggest club in the National League. With 43 matches still to play this season, the early momentum is vital. Over 8,000 fans attended the first home game of the campaign, showing the strong backing the club still commands.
Dyer is focused on maintaining that connection. "If we can get them on board early, this could be some ride," he said. The team's current form of three wins and one loss in their last four games provides a solid platform. Supporters can track the upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page. The blend of a refreshed squad, a motivated new manager, and a clear target sets the stage for a compelling season at Roots Hall.
