SOUTHEND United boss Phil Brown is backing Karl Robinson to make a quick return to football management.

Robinson left MK Dons by mutual consent following the Shrimpers’ 3-0 win at Stadium:mk on Saturday.

But Brown does not believe Robinson will be without a job for long.

“I was sad when I heard Karl was leaving after our game at the weekend because it’s never nice to see that happen to a fellow manager but he’s not going to be without a job for too long in my opinion,” said Brown.

“Karl is a really decent lad and he did a lot of good things during the six years he had at MK Dons.

“He had a real good crack at it there and that experience will stand him in good stead.

“He’s a really good character and lots of clubs would interested in giving him a job so I can’t see him having too many problems and I wish him all the very best with what he decides to do next.”

Robinson had been expected to lead MK Dons into a promotion battle this term following their relegation from the Championship last season.

But instead the club have struggled and the 36-year-old finalised his departure on Sunday.

“Milton Keynes Dons Football Club and Karl Robinson have parted company by mutual consent,” confirmed a club statement.

Head of coaching Richie Barker - the brother of former Southend skipper Chris - will step in as caretaker manager while MK Dons seek Robinson’s replacement.

Robinson became the Football League’s youngest manager when taking the MK Dons helm aged just 29 in 2010, later guiding the club to the Championship.

But after just four wins in 15 league matches this term, the MK Dons bosses have moved to unseat the popular manager.

“The start to the Sky Bet League One campaign has been disappointing with results this season not matching the desired standard,” the MK Dons statement added.

“Therefore chairman Pete Winkelman and Robinson have agreed it is in the best interest of both parties to go their separate ways.

“Everyone at MK Dons would like to thank Karl for his immense contribution - he will always remain a respected and significant figure at Stadium:mk.”

Dons are currently 19th in the table, just a point above the relegation zone.