Noel Hunt: 'Phil Brown key to Southend United switch'

Noel Hunt has revealed that manager Phil Brown persuaded him to join League One outfit Southend United.

The Republic of Ireland international left Ipswich Town to move to Roots Hall and featured in the club's pre-season friendly against Leyton Orient on Saturday.

However, Hunt has suggested that Brown was a key factor in his decision to sign for Southend.

He told the club's official website: "I spoke to the gaffer two or three weeks ago. There was a lot of things off the field that I had to deal with but I spoke to a few people and they sung his praises. I spoke to my brother who I think said he was one of the best he's ever worked with.

"Personally my wife's family are only 60 miles down the road which makes the move close to home.

"I've moved a lot over the last twelve years or so – five years in Scotland, five years in Reading and a couple at Leeds and Ipswich. It's a chance to settle for me now."

Southend were promoted to League One last season after they beat Wycombe Wanderers in the playoff final following a penalty shootout.