Southend hold Collymore talks

Southend have held initial discussions with former England international Stan Collymore over a return to Roots Hall as player-manager.

Collymore, who enjoyed a successful spell with the Shrimpers from November 1992 to July 1993, has been out of football after leaving Spanish side Real Oviedo two years ago.

“I don’t want to say much at this moment,” said deputy chairman Geoffrey King.

“We haven’t made any decision regarding the management of the club, but we are in talks with Stan Collymore, although it’s early days.”

Southend have been in the hunt for a new boss following the departure of Steve Wignall earlier this month.