Forgotten former England and Premier League striker lands new job in football after nearly two years unemployed

FORMER England striker James Beattie has landed a shock new job as director of football at AFC Totton.

The 46-year-old has been out of work for nearly two years after quitting his job as Wigan’s assistant coach.

While unemployed, Beattie has been a regular in the stands at Testwood Stadium.

And he has now agreed to take up a role on AFC Totton’s board.

Explaining his decision to join the Hampshire-based club, who play in the seventh tier of English football, Beattie said: “I’ve known the club’s CEO and owner Steve Brookwell since my time at Southampton, he’s become a firm family friend over the years.

“I’ve watched the team play many times and the performances on the pitch are indicative of a club that’s moving in the right direction.

“There is a big project here and now is an ideal time for me to become part of it.”

Straight after hanging up his boots in 2013, Beattie had a brief spell as manager of Accrington Stanley.

He has since worked closely with Garry Monk, being involved in the manager’s coaching setup at Swansea, Leeds, Middlesbrough, Birmingham and Sheffield Wednesday.

As a player, Beattie came through the ranks at Blackburn before making a name for himself at Southampton.

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The striker scored 76 goals in 235 games for the Saints.

He earned his first England call-up in 2003, playing five times for his country.

Beattie went on to play for Everton, Sheffield United, Stoke, Rangers and Blackpool.