SOUTHEND United's first team coach Graham Coughlan has refused to comment on speculation linking him with the vacant managerial position at Plymouth Argyle.

Coughlan, who lined up for the Pilgrims close to 200 times in his playing career, is believed to have held talks with the Devon club following John Sheridan’s departure late last week.

But the 40-year-old Irishman was not keen to comment on his future.

“I’m honoured to have been linked to the job because I have great admiration for Argyle and the Green Army but I don’t want to get draw into any speculation,” said Coughlan.

“I’m very ambitious and I do want to become a manager eventually but I’m happy being at Southend.

“I’ve worked my socks off here for the last five years and I’m proud of what’s been achieved.

“But I’m soon to be out of contract at the club so my future is quite uncertain at the moment.”

Echosport understands Coughlan has met with Pilgrims club officials to discuss the possibility of taking over but Paul Wotton, Darren Ferguson, Ian Holloway and Neil Warnock are also believed to be in the running.

More developments are expected to unfold within the next 48 hours and Coughlan hopes his future can be resolved by the end of the week.

“I don't know what's happening at Southend if I'm honest but I have spoken to the gaffer and he's told me there's something in the pipeline for me which is nice to hear,” said the former defender.

“I haven't actually been offered anything yet but hopefully I will be soon, just for my own peace of mind really.

“I go on holiday with my family this weekend and it would be nice if I knew a bit more about what was happening before we went away.

“But I’m looking forward to next season and I might even treat the Shrimpers fans to another mad dash up the touch-line in League One!"