SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown does not believe Daniel Bentley’s head will be turned by speculation surrounding his future.

Championship club Hull City had a £1million bid for Blues’ highly rated shot-stopper turned down at the start of the week.

But Brown is certain it will still be business as usual for Bentley.

“I had a long conversation with Daniel yesterday and we agreed to both be very level-headed about everything,” said the Shrimpers chief.

“If agents and football executives want to get lairy about the situation then that’s up to them, but Daniel and I will be carrying on as usual.

“He is very professional in everything he does and although we all tend be affected by certain voices I don’t think it will get to Daniel.

“As things stand he’s looking forward to having a good season with us in League One and he’s fully focused on that as well.”

Bentley, 22, will not be in action when the Shrimpers head to Canvey Island tonight for their latest pre-season friendly as Brown is keen to give Ted Smith 90 minutes in the build up to the new season.

But the Blues boss will be fielding a strong team against their Ryman Premier League hosts.

“It will be the first team against Canvey tonight and at Dagenham on Saturday and the plan is to make sure everyone in the squad has 90 minutes under their belts by the end of the weekend,” said Brown.

“People shouldn’t read anything into who is playing in what game or anything like that though as the games are just purely for fitness at this stage.”

Tonight’s game at the Prospects Stadium kicks off at 7.45pm.

Ticket prices have been set at £10 adults, £6 students and over 60s and £1 for those under 12.