Richard Scott named Middlesex coach

Richard Scott has been named Middlesex's new head coach with former England quick Richard Johnson his deputy and Australian Mark O'Neill joining as batting coach.

Scott, who had a six-year county career with Hampshire and Gloucestershire as well as playing some second XI matches for Middlesex, took temporary charge of the club in 2009 after Toby Radford resigned midway through the season.

"Following the unexpected resignation of Toby Radford in early July, Richard handled himself extremely well in testing circumstances," said Angus Fraser, Middlesex's managing director. "I enjoyed working with him and have been reassured and impressed with the way he works, coaches and treats people.

"He has no ego, is extremely organised, efficient and gets things done. Unlike many modern coaches who like the sound of their own voice, believe everything they say is correct and want to be the star of the show, Richard sits back, listens and works quietly with a player. I believe he has the potential to become an excellent coach."

Johnson, who played three Tests for England, spent 10 seasons with Middlesex before moving to Somerset but returned to close out his career at Lord's until retiring in 2007.

"Most professional coaches are former batsmen but I wanted Middlesex's assistant coach to have a fast bowling pedigree," Fraser said. "Fast bowlers are the most consistent match-winners in cricket, but historically I believe they have not been given the support they deserve.

"Having played with Richard for several years I know him extremely well and have been impressed with the way he has begun his post playing career. Despite moving to and playing for Somerset, he is a Middlesex boy, and everyone I have spoken to has been extremely complimentary about the progress he is making as a coach. I believe he will have a major impact on the young players at the club as they progress through the system."

O'Neill, meanwhile, comes with a strong pedigree as a batting coach after having worked with New Zealand along with New South Wales and Western Australia. Middlesex are also in the process of recruiting part-time spin-bowling and wicket-keeping coaches to supplement the staff during the 2010 season.