PHIL Brown insists he has no qualms about dropping into the National League with Southend United.

Brown will discuss his long-term future with Shrimpers chairman Ron Martin following tomorrow’s clash with Newport County at Roots Hall.

But the level of play will not affect Brown’s decision.

“There’s no problem where I’m concerned about managing Southend United in the National League,” said Brown.

“I’ve no fears of that and it would actually tick another box.

“I could say not only have I managed in the top four divisions but the top five instead.”

Brown, who previously spent five years in charge of Blues, returned to the club for the final six games of the campaign.

But he is keen to see the Shrimpers’ plans for next season before deciding whether or not he commits to the club for a longer period of time.

“It has to be right for both sides,” said Brown.

“They will have to match my ambition in trying to get out of the National League.

“Going forward any manager who takes this position has to know in no uncertain terms that the deal is right and the club has to share the ambition with the manager.

“It can’t just be them saying I hope we get promoted, I can’t be listening to that.

“It has to be on the same page as what I’m talking about.

“It’s about scrapping and battling to win games of football and that’s all I’m interested in.”