Steve Tilson

Tilson is a Southend hero, as a player he allegedly turned down bigger moves to remain at Roots Hall, whilst as a manager he took them to promotion from League Two to the Championship. That alone makes him one of their greatest ever managers, as well as an EFL Trophy final appearance and a famous win against Manchester United.

His last job in the Football League saw him relegated with Lincoln City, but he seems to come alive whenever he’s around his beloved Southend. It would be a bold move, but the strength of his relationship with the fans might make this a popular choice.