UNCERTAINTY surrounds who will be managing Southend United at the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final in less than a fortnight’s time.

Paul Sturrock had been expected to take charge of Blues for the clash with Crewe Alexandra at Wembley Stadium, despite being relieved of his duties at the weekend.

But his replacement Phil Brown has now hinted that may not be happening.

“There are ongoing conversations between Paul and the chairman and I went to see Paul as well so hopefully we’ll come to the right decision,” said Brown, 53.

“We have two very important games at the weekend against Bradford City and Fleetwood Town which we need good results in to keep alive our play-off hopes and after that we will focus on Wembley and what’s happening.

“We will see where those conversations take us and I’m sure there will be another announcement next week.”

However, Brown claimed he could not answer if Sturrock would be in charge of the team at Wembley or if the Scotsman would be taking training in the build up to the match.

And he was keen to divert attention from the forthcoming game with Crewe.

“I’m not really here to talk about Wembley to be honest,” stressed the former Hull City boss.

“I’m here to talk about a bright future for the football club and the important league games we have coming up.”

The Echo understands that Blues’ squad of players believe Sturrock will be back in charge of the team at Wembley on Sunday April 7 and chairman Ron Martin also confirmed that in a club statement at the start of the week.

“I have suggested to Paul he leads the team out and manages them at Wembley,” said Martin.

“He has earned that privilege and accepted.”

Blues have now sold more than 28,000 tickets for the final.