SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown believes Saturday’s clash with Coventry City will be the biggest game the Shrimpers have faced so far this season.

Brown remains frustrated to have seen Blues beaten on penalties against Oxford United in the Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday night.

But the 57-year-old is now desperate for his side to bounce back at Roots Hall this weekend as they resume their League One campaign.

“I think the game with Coventry is definitely the biggest we’ve had so far this season,” said Brown.

“If we win this weekend then it’s set us up nicely and puts us right into contention for the play-off places which is where we want to be coming into the Christmas period, which is always an important time of year.

“But if we were to lose then we could fall down the table and maybe start to struggle which is the last thing we want to happen, so we have to make sure we’re at our best and learn from the Oxford game.”

Blues were beaten 4-3 on penalties by the U’s having been held to a 1-1 draw at the end of 90 minutes.