SOUTHEND United legend Kevin Maher feels football cannot be rushed back.

Premier League chiefs remain in talks to resume their season next month while doubts surround how EFL campaigns can be completed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But Maher - who is now first team coach at Bristol Rovers - insists teams should only come back when it is safe to do so.

“We all want to get back to football but it has to be done right because you can’t risk people’s safety,” said Maher.

“There’s more important things than football at the minute and we have to make sure everyone is healthy and safe.

“We can only go back when it’s safe to do and it will be tough to finish this season.”

Maher, who made more than 450 appearances for the Shrimpers, has been with Rovers since last summer.

And he is thoroughly enjoying his role with the Pirates.

“It’s been brilliant and I’m really enjoying it,” said Maher.

“It’s a really good club with a lot of very good people.

"We’ve had a change in management and Ben Garner has come in.

"He’s leant on me quite a lot and it’s been brilliant working next to him and being in with the first team.”