SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown wants the Shrimpers supporters to direct their criticism towards him and not the club’s big name players.

Blues captain Anton Ferdinand was subjected to ironic cheers from sections of the Roots Hall faithful while striker Nile Ranger was booed by some supporters during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Oxford United.

But boss Brown wants fans to only direct their flak at him.

“Anton slipped for the goal but when the crowd are giving him stick I wish they had turned on me and just let the player get on with his game,” said Brown.

“I think we also all have to play a part in the anxiety the players are showing in front of goal.

“That includes me and the players and the crowd have a part to play too.

“We all have to help the players relax and enjoy their football and the players can only play if they’re enjoying themselves.

“If you’re up tight or feel pressure or anxious because of a crowd giving you some stick then you won’t get the best from them.

“Of course I understand the punters and I’m not blaming them by any stretch of the imagination.

“But I have some big players out there in my team and they have to be big enough to deal with it and step up to the plate.”

Blues remain 14th in the League One standings after their second successive stalemate but seemed to be heading back to winning ways against the U’s when Simon Cox fired them in front during the first half.

However, Wes Thomas brushed aside Ferdinand to score just three minutes later and Brown admitted the Shrimpers skipper was not an automatic starter.

“Anton is the same as any other player,” said Brown.

“He knows as well as I do that performances dictate whether you play or not.

“Anton certainly doesn’t get any special dispensation because he’s captain and he knows he has to play well enough to keep his shirt.”

At the other end of the field, Ranger - who missed Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with MK Dons due to poor time-keeping - received a mixed reaction when entering the action as a second half substitute.

But Brown wants his players to concentrate on enjoying their football.

“I wish I was crossing the white line to a few boos but unfortunately I can’t do it anymore and they have to make sure they enjoy their time as players,” said Brown.

“By doing things right on and off the field of play you get the support of the fans.”