Southend United manager Phil Brown has given the club a major boost by signing a new three-year deal.

Phil Brown's Southend go in search of a fourth win in five matches when they entertain Port Vale this afternoon (3pm kick-off)
Southend boss Phil Brown has signed a new three-year deal at Roots Hall

Brown has been at Southend since March 2013 after replacing Paul Sturrock and has been a major success since joining.

The former Hull City and Preston North End boss saw his club gain promotion last season after a thrilling penalty shoot-out win in the League Two play-off final against Wycombe Wanderers.

The win at Wembley was a giant achievement for the club, having spent five years in the fourth tier of English football with no escape in sight, until the arrival of Brown.

Speaking on his new contract, Brown said; "I've really enjoyed my time at the club and hopefully we can make some more memories together, not just next season but beyond that.

"The fans have been great to me since I joined Southend United. I'll be here next season and we need their support as well, as we'll be taking on some massive clubs for the division - Sheffield United being one of them."

Known for his confident approach to the game, Brown is looking to make a mark in the league right away, with Brown stating that he would love to "have another stab at the Premier League again" having previously won promotion with Hull City in 2008.

After the confirmation of his deal that will run till the summer of 2018, Brown added; "it's been a long process, but I'm really pleased to be staying at Southend United long-term."

Southend fans, what's next for your club this summer? Where do you think the club will finish next season? Have your say at FLW in the comments below.