MARK Phillips believes his former team-mate Mark Molesley is a great appointment for Southend United.

Phillips played alongside Molesley while at Aldershot.

And the former Shrimpers defender feels Molesley is exactly what is needed at Roots Hall following two seasons of struggle.

“I definitely think it’s a great appointment,” said Phillips, who made 114 appearances for Blues between 2010 and 2014.

“It’s been a very tough role with everything that has gone on the last few years.

“But by going with a fresh, up and coming manager in Mark you will be getting a real hunger and will to succeed.

“He will also be leading from the front which is very important in football.”

Molesley guided Weymouth to back to back promotions while also working with Bournemouth’s under 23 team.

And Phillips fully understood why Molesley took time before making up his mind.

“Mark is very sensible and clearly why it took a few more days for him to accept the role was because he would have wanted to make sure things are right and everything is set for him and the club to succeed,” said Phillips.

“I think myself and everyone associated with the club are keen for Mark to succeed.”

But for that to happen Phillips feels the Shrimpers more look for more stability.

“Southend is a great club with great people that deserve success but it needs some stability,” said Phillips.

“That needs to be implemented behind the scenes in the organisational side of things at the club.

“But get that right with a young ambitious manager like Mark and I think we will all be over the moon shouting and cheering from the stands.

“Hopefully sooner rather than later too.”

Phillips is eager to see Molesley get Blues back on track.

And he first got to know the former midfielder during his time at Aldershot.

“We played together at Aldershot, along with Chris Barker,” recalled Phillips.

“He was always a mature leader of the group whose experience of the game helped the group from the days he played in higher leagues.

“As a player his class and qualities were a big attribute to the team and us older guys helped guide the ship.”

And Molesley has now taking those qualities into management.

“Mark has been doing a great job at Bournemouth and Weymouth as well,” said Phillips.

“I know how highly thought of Mark so this is a great chance to progress his career with his team around him.”