Ilford-born 39-year-old to provide link between Academy and first team

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is set to complete his backroom staff with the signing of Ian Hendon as Development Coach.

The 39-year-old is set to join from Gillingham, where he was assistant manager to Andy Hessenthaler.

Hendon was not at Gillingham’s friendly at Bromley on Saturday, and Hessenthaler made it clear after the game that he would not be commenting on his number two’s future.

Despite being very much a done deal, the hold up in official confirmation of Hendon’s appointment is thought to be down to the amount of compensation the Hammers will have to pay

Allardyce last week confirmed that he was on the lookout for a coach to liase between the Academy and the first team and has chosen Hendon as the man for the job.

Ilford-born Hendon spent his early career at Leyton Orient before spells with Notts County, Northampton Town and Sheffield Wednesday.

The defender then joined Barnet where he retired and became manager in 2008.

Last season, Hendon joined Gillinham in controversial circumstances after previously agreeing to become Dover Athletic’s manager.

Hendon will join new goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson in Allardyce’s backroom staff and barring any problems will be in the dugout for Saturday’s friendly at Bishops Stortford.