SOUTHEND fans will be expecting a powerful response from a home side stung by Phil Brown’s criticism.

The Shrimpers boss was fuming after last week’s 3-0 loss at Bristol Rovers and publicly questioned whether the players are still behind him.

Brown always wears his heart on his sleeve but his angry comments demonstrated the seriousness of Southend’s current position.

Having been edged out of a play-off spot on the final day of last season by eventual Wembley winners Millwall, the Essex club were tipped to go one better this time around.

But they are off the pace, seven points adrift of sixth spot, and need a big result against the Bantams to get going again.

Southend’s form at Roots Hall is very strong – they are the only side in League One still unbeaten on their own patch.

The shortcomings have been on the road with just two away wins and 25 goals conceded, the second highest in all four divisions.

That adds pressure on maintaining their impressive home record against one of the division’s best travellers.

Chairman Ron Martin recently rejected a rumoured £700,000 bid from Sheffield United for midfielder Ryan Leonard.

He remains behind his manager despite the sticky situation.

Martin said: “One thing you can be assured from Phil Brown is that the players play for him.

“It is what people identify with Phil, he is totally committed and demands his players are too.

“Individually this squad is one of, if not the best, for many years and together we can succeed. But it takes total commitment from all, all of the time.”

Michael Timlin insists Brown, whose first Southend game was against City at Valley Parade in March 2013, still enjoys the full support of the dressing room. He admits the players are letting him down.

Timlin said: “He can only pick a team and it’s the team that goes out there and has to perform.

“We’re totally behind him and I would like to think you’ll see a reaction against Bradford to prove that.”