Southend United have dispensed with the services of Chris Powell this morning, after plummeting down the table and towards a possible relegation to League Two.

Powell took over in January 2018, but hasn't managed to bring a level of success to Roots Hall that might be expected.

He replaced Phil Brown but has seen the Shrimpers stagnate, with a serious danger of relegation after a terrible run of late. They're without a win in 11, picking up just four points from a possible 33.

That's seen them drop to within a whisker of the bottom four, only above Walsall on goal difference.

It's going to be a very nervy final few matches for their supporters and the club have got to get their next appointment spot on. There's an awkward choice to be made, are they appointing to remain in League One, or for a tilt at a return from League Two?

Whichever it is, we think these three managers would be perfect for Southend United.

Paul Hurst

The obvious choice has to be Paul Hurst.

Aside from his Ipswich tenure, he's a proven manager at this level. He took Shrewsbury to two Wembley finals and must be serious contender for the job.

Simon Grayson

Grayson might be smarting after a torrid time with both Sunderland and Bradford, but he's got plenty of experience and knowledge at this level.

He would be a stable pair of hands and maybe one who wouldn't cost the earth to appoint, given his recent record.

Michael Appleton

Appleton has been waiting for the right job, but they keep coming and going without him getting closer to full time work.

He would be an excellent choice, but would the Shrimpers be able to attract such a high-calibre name?

If they could, it might just save their League One status this season.