Henrik Larsson and Dirk Kuyt shock names ‘in pole position’ to take over at Southend United – The Sun

HENRIK LARSSON and Dirk Kuyt are the shock pair in line to take over at Southend United, according to local reports.

The Celtic icon and Liverpool cult hero are said to be 'in pole position' to take the vacant job at Roots Hall.

Shrimpers chairman Ron Martin made a statement on Friday afternoon that principle terms had been agreed with a candidate – with an announcement expected next week.

He wrote: "Great progress has been made this week.

"Progress not simply in shortening the club’s list of targets but settling the choice AND all the principal terms too.

"Indeed, within the last hour I believe there are no showstoppers enabling me to give you this positive news before the weekend.

"I am now targeting a press conference for Thursday and will confirm that when the ink is dry."

Larsson, 48, has been spotted at Roots Hall twice this season.

It is not clear if he was again in Essex to see Southend lose 4-1 at home to AFC Wimbledon – a result that leaves the side in 22nd in the League One table.

Kuyt, 39, was definitely not in attendance, the Duthcman playing in a Liverpool legends game alongside Steven Gerrard.

Former Swedish international Larsson won four Scottish titles, La Liga twice with Barcelona – as well as the Champions League – and the Premier League with Manchester United in 2007.

His managerial career has been slightly less successful so far, however.

Larsson's last job was with Swedish top flight club Helsingborg.

But he quit in August following social media abuse after a defeat to third tier side Oskarshamns AIK.

Kuyt has been coaching with Feyenoord Under-19s since 2018.

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