CHRIS Powell has vowed to fight on as Southend United manager.

The Shrimpers slumped to 18th in the League One standings, just two points above the drop zone, following Tuesday night’s 4-1 defeat at Scunthorpe United.

But Powell remains determined to turn things around.

“I won’t give up a fight and I won’t be waving a white flag,” said the Blues boss.

“As a manager you’re always under pressure.

“You have to perform and we haven’t done that.

“I accept I’m the one people look at and I understand that.

“We’re in a real predicament and a really tough place.

“But you really manage when things are really tough and this is a really tough period.

“We have to find a result to get us back on track.”

Blues have now gone nine games without a win and Powell feels a lack of confidence remains a real problem.

“Confidence is low and once the second goal went in you could see it drain away even further,” said Powell.

“We’ve come away with a hiding and mentally I think they’re finding it tough.

“We have to overcome this very quickly.”

Blues will now be bidding to bounce back at home to bottom of the table AFC Wimbledon this weekend.