PHIL Parkinson has topped an Echosport poll on who should be the next Southend United manager.

More than 2,000 Shrimpers took part in the vote.

And it was Parkinson who finished first with 33 per cent.

The 51-year-old has enjoyed spells in charge of Colchester United, Hull City, Charlton Athletic,Bradford City and Bolton Wanderers.

And Blues legend Spencer Prior is among those who feels Parkinson should replace Kevin Bond at Roots Hall.

Prior tweeted: "This is a massive appointment coming up for Southend. While 'Baldy' Barrett would be fantastic from a nostalgic perspective, he lacks experience as manager.

"It's not the time to appoint a fans favourite son.

"It has to be Phil Parkinson given his level of success and experience.

"I spoke a long time talking to him and trained with Colchester before coming back to Southend.

"His management style would be exactly what the club needs right now."

Parkinson has had 756 games as a manager and is available after leaving Bolton in August.

Former Shrimpers defender Barrett finished second in the poll with 28 per cent of the vote with Gary Rowett (23 per cent) third and Sol Campbell (16 per cent) fourth.