Hyam hopes for Shrimpers return

Posted Sunday, December 30, 2018 by PA

Southend could have midfielder Luke Hyam available again following illness for the Sky Bet League One match against Gillingham.

Forward Harry Bunn, fit again from a thigh problem, should feature after his late substitute appearance in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Coventry.

Midfielder Dru Yearwood could be involved again after being forced off against Oxford on Boxing Day with cramp, while goalkeeper Mark Oxley (back) continues his recovery, along with defenders Jason Demetriou (knee) and Harry Lennon (fractured leg).

Left-back Ben Coker, winger Sam Barratt, midfielder Lewis Gard and striker Tom Hopper are all ruled out for the rest of the season with knee injuries, along with centre-back Harry Kyprianou (Achilles).

Gillingham’s leading scorer Tom Eaves is expected to come back into the side for the trip to Roots Hall.

Eaves, who had been out because of a thigh problem, was sent on for the second half of Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat to Doncaster, with Brandon Hanlan likely to give way again.

Midfielder Dean Parrett, who had been carrying a hamstring issue, and defender Barry Fuller are both doubtful after picking up fitness problems against Rovers.

Defender Max Ehmer remains sidelined following a dislocated shoulder, while midfielder Regan Charles-Cook has a hamstring problem.