RICHIE WELLENS feels he’s nailed the right man for the job in bringing in Paul Jewell as assistant manager.

The 53-year-old, who won the League One title while at Wigan, brings with him vast experience which is sure to be a massive boost for the rookie boss.

Wellens said: “I felt it was important to get someone in who wasn’t just a mate. I’ve known Paul Jewell for a long time but we’ve never had what you would call a close relationship.

“I wanted someone who’s not going to agree with me all the time. A mistake with a lot of young managers is when they get their mate in, they go for a drink together on a Friday night and it’s a nice laugh.

“There’s no discussions or arguments or little bits of conflict to discuss regarding what is best for the team and the football club which is the main thing.

“Paul will voice his opinion strongly and that’s important. The lads get sick of my voice. Plus, it’s another set of eyes which will allow me to step back and see the bigger picture.”

Despite being out of the game for a while – Jewell’s last role was, briefly, as assistant to Tony Pulis at West Brom in January, 2015 – Wellens believes he still has the drive to succeed.

“When I speak to him about football, I can sense the passion in his voice,” added Wellens.

“He’s been successful at this level and levels above. He has been through everything, seen it and done it.

“It’s up to the players now to lean on his experience and see what he can teach them – as well as me, I’m going to learn from him, 100 per cent.”

Wellens has also added Paul Terry – brother of Chelsea legend John – to his backroom staff. He becomes first-team coach and will also take charge of the reserves.

Wellens said: “Paul Terry has been with us for eight weeks now. We’ve got a big group so the reserves needed someone who is young and enthusiastic and wants to learn.

“He’s starting out pretty much as I am. But Paul Jewell has got tremendous experience and I’m sure Paul Terry will lean on him for guidance.”

Latics make the long trip to Southend’s Roots Hall on Saturday without the suspended Anthony Gerrard, who collected his fifth league booking of the season at Gillingham last week.

Peter Clarke looks certain to take his place, though Brian Wilson can also operate at centre back.

Fit-again frontman Courtney Duffus could return to the bench.