SOUTHEND United are to take their time before appointing their next manager, Echosport understands.

Blues are on the look-out for a new boss following the departure of Sol Campbell earlier this week.

But the Roots Hall hierarchy are in no rush to name a successor for the England international, at least until there is a start date for next season.

League Two clubs are still waiting to discover when the new season will kick off and Blues therefore have no return to training scheduled at this stage.

As a result, no imminent appointment is expected.

Former Shrimpers captains Kevin Maher and Adam Barrett are both among the bookmakers' favourites for the role.

But Blues have yet to approach any club or individual as they consider their position and continue to plan for the future.