Chris Powell to check on Michael Turner ahead of first Southend game

New Southend manager Chris Powell will take charge of the team for the first time when Sky Bet League One play-off hopefuls Scunthorpe visit Roots Hall.

Former Blues left-back Powell was appointed following the departure of Phil Brown, and he will check on defender Michael Turner, who has been nursing a calf problem.

Midfielder Anthony Wordsworth will also be assessed after missing the Shrimpers’ last outing two weeks ago with a calf injury.

Centre-back Rob Kiernan is recovering after undergoing an operation on his knee, while midfielder Josh Wright is close to a return to full training after a hamstring problem.

Scunthorpe midfielder Neal Bishop has been ruled out after being carried off on a stretcher in last week’s home draw against Doncaster.

Bishop sustained an impact injury to his knee but is hoping to return to training next week, so Cameron McGeehan could make his first start since joining on loan from Barnsley.

Midfielder Andrew Crofts is back in contention after being sidelined since last month due to an ankle problem, while boss Graham Alexander has no other new injury or suspension problems.

Goalkeeper Matt Gilks (calf) misses out again but he has returned to training after missing the last three matches.