Phil Brown...

[campo21]

Southend United chairman Ron Martin has rejected speculation linking manager Phil Brown with a return to Bolton.

Reports last November suggested Brown was a target for the Sports Shield consortium should they complete a takeover of Wanderers, which moved a step closer to reality on Monday when, subject to Football League approval, they concluded a deal to take ownership from Eddie Davies.

But Martin, who was asked about Brown's potential link with his former club, says rumours of an imminent exit are false and he would deny Wanderers permission to speak with his trusted manager.

"There has been no approach from Bolton for Phil and even if there was I wouldn't allow him to talk to them," Martin told Echo News.

"I would also like to think that Phil wishes to stay. We have a business plan which with the continuing support of the council we are determined to deliver.

"We want Southend United’s long recognised potential to be fulfilled and Phil is a principal part of those pl

[campo21]

I'd rather have Nigel Pearson.

[gardsPNE]

Going back to an old stomping ground generally doesn't work out for either party Campo