SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt his substitutions were not to blame for the Shrimpers’ 2-1 defeat at Burton Albion.

Brown’s decision to replace David Worrall with Myles Weston midway through the second half at the Pirelli Stadium was barracked by the travelling supporters who aimed chants of ‘you don’t know what you’re doing’ in his direction.

However, Brown – who also brought on Jack Payne for Joe Pigott and Jake Cassidy for Adam Thompson – did not think the alterations changed the outcome of the game.

“You can ask questions about subs and systems but they had nothing to do with the second half performance,” said Brown.

“Our mentality was wrong and that’s why we lost.

“Fans have their own opinions and that will continue forever and I’m certainly not here to moan about that.

“I hold myself responsible for what happened tonight but if you want to question the substitutions by all means phone in and I’ll answer the questions.”

Blues had led 1-0 at the break and also had an extra man for the entire second half after Burton midfielder Robbie Weir was sent off just before the break.

However, the Shrimpers were unable to take advantage during a poor second half performance which led to Brown making changes.

“David Worrall was disappointed to come off but I was disappointed by his performance and Joe Pigott’s as well,” insisted Brown.

“Putting fresh legs is never a bad thing against 10 men and neither is changing systems or bringing on players who can create and score chances.

“That was the reason for the three substitutions. “