Sam Mantom set to return as Southend host Oxford

Sam Mantom could return for Southend as they seek a fourth straight Sky Bet League One win in Saturday’s fixture with Oxford at Roots Hall.

Midfielder Mantom was rested for Tuesday’s win at Burton after playing through the pain of a back injury.

Dru Yearwood made his first start of the season at Burton following a long-term hamstring problem, boosting Chris Powell’s options.

Forward Harry Bunn has missed the last three games with a foot problem, while defenders Harry Lennon (fractured toe) and Rob Kiernan (knee) remain out.

Oxford midfielder Shandon Baptiste is suspended as Karl Robinson seeks to revive a squad which has lost eight of their 11 League One games this season.

Baptiste was sent off for two bookable offences in Tuesday’s loss to Luton and will serve a one-match ban.

Midfielder Samir Carruthers returned from a knee injury against Albion from the substitutes’ bench and will hope to feature again.

Goalkeeper Simon Eastwood (broken finger), midfielder Marcus Browne and forward Rob Hall (both knee) are still out.