WEYMOUTH midfielder Jake McCarthy holds mixed feelings over boss Mark Molesley’s links to the vacant Southend United job.

Molesley, who is yet to decide his future, is under contract at Weymouth for another season and the Terras would be entitled to compensation should he move to the Blues.

McCarthy scored a penalty in the 3-0 shootout win over Dartford that sealed back-to-back promotions for the Terras, who are National League material for the first time since 2009.

While McCarthy believes Molesley deserves a chance at managing a League Two side, he would prefer to compete in non-league’s top flight with the ex-Bournemouth man at the helm.

“If he was to go, it’s a great step up for him and he deserves it,” McCarthy told the Dorset Echo.

“But at the same time, he’s done so well for us with back-to-back promotions it would be good to see him stay on and give it a go in (the National League) with Weymouth.

“I’m sure whatever decision he makes and the club makes it will be the right decision. Fingers crossed we find out soon.”

McCarthy also revealed there would be no anger towards Molesley if he joined the Shrimpers.

“There’d be no negative feeling at all,” McCarthy insisted.

“All the boys are in the dark in terms of what’s going on. No-one knows apart from Mark himself what’s going to happen.

“Because he’s achieved that back-to-back promotion it doesn’t go unnoticed.

“I’ve seen in the paper he’s had people like Harry Redknapp recommending him. From the boys’ point of view there’s nothing negative.

“Whatever decision he makes, everyone will be behind him. If he does go to Southend and everyone stays at Weymouth I’ll always be looking at them and hoping they do well.

“At the same time, I hope he stays and we can go again for next season – you never know what can happen.”