SOUTHEND United boss Phil Brown is enjoying working alongside Ricky Duncan once again despite initially having been warned about Blues' academy manager.

The long-serving Duncan has stepped up to be assistant manager since Brown returned to Roots Hall for a second spell.

And Brown is again pleased to be benefitting from his work. 

"When I first came to the club a lot of people told me to be wary of Ricky Duncan because he would want my job," said Brown.

"But it’s amazing how wrong people are about the good intentions Rick has the football club and has had for many years.

"There’s been a production line of young talent I got the benefit from first time around and I’m probably going to get that second time around too."

But Brown does not yet know what will be happening next season.

"Ricky and Craig (Fagan) are wondering what’s happening next and there’s a lot of uncertainty about," said the Blues boss. 

"Ron has not finalised any details with regards to next season so I will wait until after the game, sit down with him and decide on mine and Southend’s future.

"If he wants me and a deal is right for both sides then I will sign, there’s no doubt about that."