SOUTHEND United's relegation rivals Barrow have parted company with manager Michael Jolley.

Jolley was named Barrow boss just before Christmas.

But chairman Paul Hornby has already opted to make a change. 

“It has become apparent even in such a short space of time that unfortunately the board and Michael have differing visions for how the team should play, which has led to this change being made,” Hornby told the club's official website.

“We believe that it’s best to recognise this now and make the change early so that the team can concentrate on the remaining games of the season.

"We’d like to thank Michael for all of his hard work and wish him well in his future career."

Barrow, who were promoted from the National League last season, are currently second from bottom in the standings, a point below Blues with two games in hand.

And Hornby has placed Rob Kelly in charge for the remainder of the season.

“Rob Kelly has been appointed as caretaker manager with immediate effect and will lead the team until the end of the season," said Hornby.

"Rob has had a successful, albeit brief, spell in charge of the team earlier in the season and is aligned to our philosophies and culture.

“This has not been an easy decision to make.

"However, the board feel that it’s the right decision and one that gives us the best possible chance of remaining in League Two, which is the ultimate aim of everybody associated with Barrow AFC.”