SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown believes Blues will have first refusal on transfer target Joe Pigott.

The 21-year-old striker, who ended last season on loan at Roots Hall, lined up for Charlton Athletic against the Shrimpers on Tuesday night.

And Brown is still hopeful of Pigott coming back to the club.

“I’m still very interested in Joe and if everything falls into place then I think we will have first refusal because of the offer we have on the table,” said Brown.

“It was quite a difficult night for him on Tuesday but I still think he would be a very welcome addition for us.”