SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown must decide this weekend whether or not to extend Nile Ranger’s spell with the Shrimpers.

The controversial striker’s initial month-long spell at Roots Hall comes to an end on Sunday.

But Brown is keen to find out the seriousness of Ranger’s groin injury before finalising his future.

“It’s difficult when you’re asking the chairman to put his hand in his pocket for someone who is not fit,” said Brown.

“That’s the dilemma and I need to understand how quickly Nile will be fit before deciding what to do.

“It’s a decision I need to make in the next 24 to 48 hours but I like the lad and there’s definitely a player in there.

“But he will need a pre-season when fit.”