Paul Sturrock has admitted that he was 'not surprised' to be relieved of his managerial duties at Southend United on Sunday.

Sturrock, who has been at Roots Hall for three years, saw his tenure come to an end at the weekend with the Blues six points off the playoff positions in the League Two table.

"My contract was up at the end of the season and I had thoughts of moving on anyway. I wasn't surprised. I've been at for Southend three years and enjoyed every minute of it but sometimes you get a bit stale and have to move on. I'm hoping for a new challenge," he told talkSPORT.

"It's been great. We have been a bit unlucky in the last few seasons. I'm very hopeful they will win a couple of games and get in the playoffs."

However, Sturrock will lead out the team for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final against Crewe Alexandra on April 7.