FORMER Southampton captain Dean Hammond is used to getting promoted.

He achieved that feat on multiple occasions during his playing career, notably in back-to-back seasons with Saints between 2010 and 2012. 

Now the retired midfielder is hopeful of gaining his first promotion in the dugout.

The 41 year old is a part of the coaching staff at Worthing, who face Braintree Town in today's National League South playoff final.

"I'm really excited because It's a big game for the club," he told the Daily Echo. "I'm sure there will be a lot of anxiety and nerves within the group because that is normal.

"Hopefully we will get a positive result. There has definitely been some challenges for me as a coach along the way, but I would rather have it this way than not at all.

Daily Echo:

"I'm learning very quickly because whatever level you are at you have to be driven by results.

"The team was in a really healthy position when we took over after Adam Hinshelwood left for York City.

"We have put our own stamp on things but we have also tried to not change too much. It's been a challenge but I'm loving it."

Becoming a coach has always been a part of Hammond's post-career plans. He did his coaching badges while still playing but continued to put off taking a coaching role for different reasons.

He had been commenting on Saints TV's coverage this season before being offered the opportunity to join Worthing, something that he jumped at.

"I was waiting for an opportunity to come up at the right time. I am really grateful that Worthing approached me.

"I think you can only ever lead with your own experiences. I was lucky to have some promotions in my career.

"This is what you play for. I will try to relay some of those messages and experiences to help because you don't always get an opportunity to win promotion."

One of the key players for Worthing this season is young Saints shot-stopper Ollie Wright.

The 21 year old has impressed many during his loan spell at the Rebels, none more so than Hammond.

"I don't use the word lightly, but he has been incredible," Hammond explained. "He has been brilliant for us. He has made some wonderful saves at really important times.

"He is really ambitious and you can see that he wants to build a career for himself. I think he has a great future in the game. These experiences can only help."