FOLLOWING Phil Brown’s dismissal, Southend United are now on the look-out for their seventh manager since January 2018.

With Blues struggling towards the foot of the National League standings, the job will be extremely tough for anyone taking charge.

And a wide range of possible candidates have already been mentioned by supporters.

After sifting through the social media replies, here are the top five most mentioned managers who could possibly be the next Blues boss.

NEIL SMITH

Smith has previously managed both Welling United and Bromley where he was in charge for five years.

Smith had 252 games as Bromley boss, winning 95.

DARREN CURRIE

Currie was heavily linked with the Shrimpers during the summer of 2020 before Mark Molesley was given the job.

Currie, who has regularly watched Blues from the directors box this season, has been out of management since leaving Barnet in 2020.

Currie worked at Sheffield United towards the end of last season, working alongside ex Shrimpers Graham Coughlan with the Blades’ under 23 team.

STEVE TILSON

Tilson took charge of Blues between 2003 and 2010 and has been mentioned by a number of supporters.

Tilson led Blues to two successive promotions and is currently in charge of Heybridge Swifts.

The 55-year-old also made 275 appearances as a player for Blues having previously grown up watching his home-town club.

GRAHAM COUGHLAN

Coughlan spent seven years with the Shrimpers and was assistant to Phil Brown during his first spell in charge.

Coughlan left Roots Hall in January 2018 and has since gone on to manage both Bristol Rovers and Mansfield Town.

He worked at Sheffield United towards the end of last season.

MARK STIMSON

The current Hornchurch boss lined up for Blues during his playing career before going into management.

Stimson enjoyed a successful spell at Grays, helping to nurture a number of young players including Freddy Eastwood, Michael Kightly and Gary Hooper.

Stimson has also managed Stevenage, Barnet and Gillingham and he won the FA Trophy with Hornchurch last season.

Other names mentioned by supporters include Alan Devonshire, Michael Flynn, John McGreal, Kevin Maher, Mark Bentley and Neil Harris.