PHIL Brown is to make a sensational return to Southend United, Echosport understands.

Brown led the Shrimpers to promotion during a five year spell in charge which ended in January 2018.

But, with Blues now fighting to stay in the Football League, it is believed Brown will be returning to Roots Hall for a second spell to replace Mark Molesley.

The Shrimpers are currently 23rd in the League Two standings and sit five points from safety with just six games to go.

Blues host Crawley Town at Roots Hall on Saturday.