Sky Bet League One side Southend United are interested in making Bristol City under-23 coach Luke Williams their new manager, according to reports from HITC Sport.

The Essex club parted company with Chris Powell last week, with the Shrimpers sitting dangerously close to the relegation zone after going 11 games without a win.

The club lost once again at the weekend, this time against relegation-threatened Shrewsbury Town by two goals to nil at Roots Hall, with the appointment of a new manager pending.

Reports from HITC Sport via sources close to the club claim that Bristol City's Luke Williams could be the new man in charge at Southend - the 38-year old's last stint in management came at Swindon Town, where he won just 20 out of 75 games at the helm of the Wiltshire club.

The former Brighton and Hove Albion under-21 coach landed the Bristol City under-23 coach role in 2017, and has since developed a plethora of talented youngsters at Ashton Gate, who are now well in Lee Johnson's first-team plans.

It is believed that United want to focus on developing young players in the future whether they stay in League One or are relegated to League Two, making Williams the ideal candidate.

Southend currently sit 20th in the League One table, sitting outside of the drop-zone only on goal difference after losing their last four league games.

The Verdict

This is a very risky move by Southend if they were to appoint Williams.

He may be a very good manager in terms of youth level, but League One is a completely different kettle of fish compared to under-23 football.

Southend's League One status is at stake here, and perhaps a more experienced option should be considered by the club.