Tomorrow's beach battle at high-flying Bournemouth could signal the end of temporary Southend United chief Stewart Robson's first brief taste of football management.

The former Arsenal midfielder took over from sacked Blues boss Rob Newman on a caretaker basis two games ago, losing at York City and beating Darlington 2-0 at Roots Hall last weekend.

Robson, Southend's head coach, has been interviewed as a potential successor along with the three Steves -- Thompson, Whitton and Wignall -- plus Roy McFarland, Andy Kilner and Graham Rix.

Stewart Robson : open mind about chances of managing the Blues

But the 38-year-old said he had a completely open mind about the managerial appointment, which will be made next week.

"I'd like the job but I won't be disappointed if I don't get it," said Robson. "I'm happy to go back to coaching and work with an older manager, as long as I get a good input on the training ground.

"It's been enjoyable taking charge of the team over the last few weeks and I've been trying to bridge a few gaps for the new manager.

"I've been looking at the current squad's contracts and compiling a hit-list of players we might want to bring in next season.

"But mostly, I've just been trying to maintain some continuity and do things right for Southend United."

Robson said his thoughts were focused on ending 13th-placed Blues' nightmare run of six successive away defeats, against a Bournemouth side which is riding high in fourth spot.

Published Friday, April 11, 2003

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