SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has made seven changes to his starting line-up for tonight’s Checkatrade Trophy clash against Brighton & Hove Albion’s under 23 team.

New signing Anton Ferdinand will start at the heart of the back five while youngster Harry Kyprianou has also been handed his debut as a left wing back.

Goalkeeper Ted Smith has been selected for his first start between the sticks while John White and Jakub Sokolik have also been called into the defence.

In midfield, Will Atkinson has been recalled while David Mooney will start in attack alongside Simon Cox.

Southend United: Smith, White, Thompson, Sokolik, Ferdinand, Kyprianou, Leonard, King, Atkinson, Cox, Mooney

Substitutes: Oxley, O’Neill, McGlashan, Bridge, Williams, Alawode-Williams & Matsuzaka