Phil Brown plays down Bolton Wanderers speculation

Southend United manager Phil Brown has insisted that he has had no contact from Bolton Wanderers regarding their managerial vacancy.

The Championship side are looking for a new boss following the departure of Dougie Freedman last week.

Brown spent six years with the Trotters as a player, before serving as assistant manager to Sam Allardyce between 1999 and 2005.

"There is always going to speculation about myself and Bolton, whenever the job comes up," Brown told talkSPORT.

"I had fifteen odd years there as a player and coach. We had some great times under Sam Allardyce. I've had no contact with Bolton Wanderers officially, though.

"All I've had is the media guys asking me the question. I've got a project here at Southend and I'm only 20 months in to that."

Brown has also managed Derby County, Hull City and Preston North End during his career.