Henrik Larsson is in "pole position" to become the next Southend United manager, according to local reports.
The former Celtic, Barcelona and Manchester United forward is also set to appoint former Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt as his assistant at Roots Hall, report The Southend Echo.
Larsson, who has already watched the club on two occasions this season, including a 4-1 defeat to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday afternoon, is the firm favourite to takeover at the League One club.
He is also expected to bring in former Notts County and Celtic forward Tommy Johnson as part of his coaching team.
Larsson's last spell in management came with Swedish club Helsingsborg, but he quit the club after he was abused on social media following a defeat to third tier side Oskarshamns AIK.
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Southend chairman Ron Martin said that an appointment is close in a statement on Friday.
"I am now targeting a press conference for Thursday and will confirm that when the ink is dry." he wrote.
"I know it's all been bad news on the pitch and my job is to ensure that changes... hopefully tomorrow. I shall always do my best to get this club back on track and can at least confirm the position off the pitch is looking great.
"Hopefully we'll have good reason to sing our hearts out tomorrow and in the coming weeks as well."
Earlier this week, Henrik Larsson, Dennis Bergkamp and Dirk Kuyt were linked with a sensational takeover at Wycombe Wanderers, another League One side.
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The trio have made a bid for The Chairboys, according to The Athletic, who claim former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman is being used in an advisory role.
Another unnamed high-profile former Dutch footballer is also reportedly involved.
The retired group have already been in contact with Wycombe's chairman Trevor Stroud with an aim to "catapult the club into stardom."
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"All of the discussions we had before we went down the route with Rob are covered by NDAs (non-disclosure agreements)." Stroud told The Athletic.
"I've been asked a few times, people have picked up rumours, but all I can say is, yes, we talked to a number of parties. That's the position I have to hold.
"We think we've got the right person and we're looking forward to the vote starting next Tuesday."
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, Dirk Kuyt, League One
