SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has told Gary Deegan to learn from the red card he received during Saturday’s 3-0 win against Coventry City.

The aggressive midfielder was sent off in the 51st minute after being shown a second yellow card for a foul on James Maddison.

But Brown does not want Deegan to keep getting himself in trouble.

“Gary’s got a cult status at the football club with the beard and the aggression but it counts for nothing if you’re not on the field of play,” said Brown.

“He has to learn and he knows that.

“I’m not slagging him off and we will go forward together but he’s suspended now so he’ll lose his place and he’s feeling pig sick in there.”

However Brown felt Deegan, who has been booked nine times in 12 starts this term, was actually unfortunate to have been sent off.

And the Shrimpers chief felt referee Brendan Malone could have opted against brandishing a red card.

“Deegan’s was a very quick decision and the ref could have got by without showing him a second yellow card if you ask me,” said Brown.

“Gary does tread a thin line and it’s even thinner when he’s on a yellow card.

“But it didn’t cost us and there’s no reason why it should do either just as long as you keep your discipline.

“However, it was still a great day at the office getting another clean sheet and three marvellous goals.”

Tyrone Barnett bagged a brace for Blues while Jack Payne was also on target.

And Brown was also delighted by his side’s attitude.

“It was hard work and commitment which won us the game,” he added.