FORMER Weymouth and Dorchester Town man James Coutts is enjoying a successful spell Down Under as part of the set up at Australian side Murray United.

The midfielder, who started his career on the books at AFC Bournemouth before being snapped up by the Terras in 2007, has been appointed as head coach of the National Premier Leagues Victoria outfit.

He replaced former chief Mick Richards, who stepped down from United’s senior coaching role due to family and business commitments.

Weymouth-born Coutts, who already played a part in coaching the club’s under-20 and under-18 playing squads, was initially appointed in a caretaker role.

But, after impressing in the senior position, the former Terras’ ace was handed a two-year deal, which ensures he will remain down under until the end of the 2017 season.

Murray United chairman Mark Byatt said Coutts’ signature was a positive piece of news for the Australian club.

He told the Border Mail: “James has the football smarts, respect and support of the players, and his appointment of an emerging NPL club is a big deal.”

Coutts, who also featured 23 times for Dorchester Town in 2010/11, will continue to oversee the club’s youth structure under his new contract.