Lennon faces long-term lay-off for Southend

Southend will be missing defender Harry Lennon for the Boxing Day visit of MK Dons and most likely for the rest of the season after he suffered a suspected broken leg on Saturday.

The full-back had to leave the pitch on a stretcher during the 3-2 Sky Bet League One defeat at Bolton and boss Sol Campbell said: “We think Harry has fractured his fibula.”

Lennon was replaced by John White and the veteran defender could start the home contest with MK Dons this week.

Forward Tom Hopper returned from an ankle injury in the weekend defeat, but left-back Nathan Ralph is sidelined for the foreseeable future after suffering a dislocated shoulder earlier this month.

Striker Sam Nombe returned for MK Dons in the 3-1 defeat at Gillingham and will be pushing for a start at Roots Hall.

Boss Russell Martin praised the performance of the forward post-match and fellow attacker Rhys Healey will attempt to return to the matchday 18 before the year is out.

MK Dons had George Williams on the bench again on Saturday after he served a three-game ban and Baily Cargill is available after his recent suspension for the trip to Southend.

Jordan Moore-Taylor has struggled with pain in his knee of late, but is not expected to be sidelined for a significant period of time.