SOUTHEND United’s interim head coach Jason Demetriou has yet to decide whether or not he will play this weekend.

Demetriou will take charge of the Shrimpers for Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Chertsey Town.

But the 33-year-old does not yet know if he will be in the dug-out.

“We’ve spoken about it,” said Demetriou.

“It’s been something I’m mulling over.

“I’ve asked a few boys for their opinion and what they would do.

“I’ve spoken to other managers too so I’ve taken a lot on ideas on board.”

Demetriou stepped up following the departure of Phil Brown after Saturday’s 4-0 defeat to Chesterfield.

And it has been a busy few days for the defender.

“It’s been a crazy week but we’ve enjoyed it,” said Demetriou.

“It’s the task in the future I want to do so it’s nice to have an eye-opener and see how it is.

“It’s full on but it’s a challenge we’re looking forward to.”

But Demetriou is taking nothing for granted against Chertsey.

“I’ve been analysing them and seeing what they’re about,” said Demetriou.

“It will be a tough game and they will make it really difficult for us. “They think we’re on a low but that’s out the window now.

“This is a new thing we’re starting and we need everyone at it.

“We need to match to their work-rate and then let our quality shine through.

“But we have to believe in ourselves too which is probably one thing we’ve lacked in the last few weeks.”

And Demetriou feels fans, who have been protesting against chairman Ron Martin in recent weeks, will again be behind the team.

“The fans have always been brilliant and we know they’re frustrated but they do get behind us,” said Demetriou.

“Things are changing and it’s going to better, hopefully starting with a win on Saturday.”

But Demetriou has no idea when a permanent manager will be appointed.

“Hopefully it will be the start of next week but I’m happy to carry on until whenever they get the right person in,” he added.