Midfield problems for Southend ahead of Charlton visit

Posted Friday, August 31, 2018 by PA

Southend’s summer recruits Timothee Dieng and Luke Hyam are both still struggling for full fitness after injuries as the Shrimpers prepare to welcome Charlton to Roots Hall.

Teenager Dru Yearwood is also a doubt having only just returned to light training after a hamstring injury interrupted his pre-season.

Fellow midfielder Sam Mantom is hoping to be fit after he strained his back in last week’s win at Bristol Rovers but if he fails to recover manager Chris Powell may have to play right-back Jason Demetriou in midfield.

Another option for Powell might be winger Harry Bunn, who arrived from Bury this week on a season-long loan to cover Sam Barratt’s long-term knee injury.

Charlton’s caretaker boss Lee Bowyer has also had to deal with a busy physio room this season but he is optimistic that two of last season’s key men, Tariqe Fosu and Ben Reeves, might be ready for their first action of the campaign, albeit off the bench.

Having seen his side gain a win and two draws in their five league fixtures, Bowyer has been trying to upgrade his squad before the loan window closes on Friday.

The Addicks added one new face on Thursday with the arrival of Josh Cullen on a season-long loan from West Ham.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who has been capped by Ireland at U19 and U21 levels, played 12 games for Bolton in the Championship last season and will be hoping to make an immediate impact at his new club.