SOUTHEND United have confirmed the departure of manager Mark Molesley.

As was revealed by Echosport last night, Molesley has been replaced by Phil Brown who returns to Roots Hall for a second spell.

A club statement said: “The club last night terminated the contract of manager Mark Molesley, together with the majority of his back room staff.

“We wish to thank Mark for the commitment throughout his tenure.

"The board recognise the management team worked tirelessly.

"However, whilst considerable further support was afforded during the January window, results on the pitch remained, unfortunately, inconsistent.

Echo:

Coming back - Phil Brown has returned to Southend United

“Phil Brown, who previously managed the club between 2013 and 2018, will take charge with immediate effect.

“Brown, who signed some members of the existing squad, will be assisted by his former colleague Ricky Duncan (Head of Academy) and Craig Fagan (Under 23 Manager), who played under Brown when he managed Hull City between 2006 and 2010.”

The Shrimpers, who host Crawley Town at Roots Hall tomorrow, are currently second from bottom in League Two, five points from safety with six games to go.

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