WEYMOUTH manager Mark Molesley has emerged as the bookmakers’ favourite to become Southend United boss.

Molesley's odds have today shortened to 1/5 and he is reportedly vying with Shrimpers’ under-23s boss Craig Fagan for the role.

Southend have been managerless since Sol Campbell left the Shrimpers in June.

Should Molesley land the role, Weymouth would be entitled to compensation as the former Bournemouth manager has one season left to run on his current contract at the Bob Lucas Stadium.

Molesley, who splits his time at the Terras with his under-21s assistant position at Bournemouth, has led Weymouth to back-to-back promotions.

Southend chairman Ron Martin believes an announcement on the Shrimpers’ new boss could be made by Tuesday night.