MARK Owen has taken the first step on the road to a career in management by accepting a coaching role at Stourport Swifts.

The former Worcester City striker has left Evesham United to take on a dual position as a player and a member of Neil Hunt’s backroom staff.

Owen spends his week working as assistant to Ray Woods at City’s youth academy and felt the Walshes Meadow move was too good to turn down.

He was part of the Swifts team that drew 1-1 against Chesham United on Saturday in British Gas Business Division One Midlands, despite having John Snape sent off early in the first-half.

“It’s an opportunity I couldn’t let up,” said Owen, who worked with Swifts boss Hunt while at Malvern Town.

“I love the coaching and managing aspect and, with the job I do, I think that’s brought the idea forward a couple of years.

“When Neil offered me the role, at 31 it’s something I have got to be thinking about. I have to start thinking about after the playing side of my career.”

Owen said Evesham boss Paul West understood his decision to leave and he had not fallen out with the Robins.