SOUTHEND United are unlikely to appeal against the red card Conor Clifford was shown at Mansfield Town on Saturday.

The midfielder was dismissed for a sliding challenge on Stags striker Matt Rhead in the 81st minute of his side's 2-1 defeat.

And, despite not agreeing with the decision, Shrimpers boss Phil Brown does not expect the club to contest the red card.

“I’ve had a look at the challenge again on the DVD and Conor does win the ball but it’s probably unlikely to will put in an appeal,” confirmed Brown.

“If you look at the way Rhead reacts to the challenge I actually think that’s more of a red card but it’s a big disappointment for us.

“I don’t agree with the decision and the referee should have given himself more time instead of showing the red card straight away.

“I was a bit spiky immediately after the game on Saturday because I was frustrated by the defeat but I actually don’t like to criticise referees because I think they have a difficult job to do.”

Clifford will now miss the Shrimpers’ next four matches and will be unavailable until Wycombe Wanderers visit Roots Hall at the start of March.