This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Southend United continue their search for a new permanent manager with caretaker manager Gary Waddock currently overseeing proceedings at Roots Hall, though it seems, former Barcelona and Manchester United star Henrik Larsson is unlikely to be offered the post despite expressing an interest, as reported on Sky Sports.

The former Swedish star watched from the stands as the Shrimpers beat MK Dons 1-0 on Saturday and is currently unemployed having left Helsingborg a month ago.

So is it sensible by Southend to not offer the role to Larsson?

We discuss........

Chris Gallagher

"I'm not so sure.

"There's no doubt giving him the job would have represented a big risk given his lack of experience in this country but it could have paid off.

"His name may have attracted players to the club and you would imagine the current group would love to work under someone like him given all he achieved in the game.

"There's no getting away from the fact that Southend are in a very tough position right now and a safe choice might not get them out of this mess. There are a lot of issues that need sorting and appointing a big name who has something to prove may have just worked out."

Josh Cole

“Whilst Larsson has experienced varying levels of success in Swedish football as a manager, it would have been a huge risk by Southend to appoint him as their boss.

“Having never managed in English football before, the 48-year-old may have struggled to adapt to his new surroundings.

“Although there is no doubting that the Shrimpers need to bring in a fresh face as soon as possible due to the fact that they are currently 21st in League One, they cannot afford to make an error in judgement.

“Despite the 2019/20 campaign still being in its infancy, Southend could be dragged into a relegation battle if they appoint the wrong man and thus it may be worth looking towards someone who has previous managerial experience in the third-tier.”

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George Harbey

“I personally feel as if they have dodged a bullet with this one.

“It would be unfair to write off Larsson straight away given that he’s an unproven manager, just like Sol Campbell was when he arrived at Macclesfield last season.

“But Southend need an experienced pair of hands to take over, in my opinion – someone who knows the division.

“Whilst Larsson may be an upcoming coach, they need a stable option and cannot afford to take any risks.”