SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher will be turning his attentions towards the finer details when Gillingham visit Roots Hall tomorrow.

Maher has been encouraged by the Shrimpers’ start to their pre-season schedule.

But Blues’ head coach knows there is still plenty to work on.

“We’re pleased with where we are in terms of pre-season but we’ve still got a little bit of time to go until the first game and there are things to work on,” said Maher.

“We’re starting to get to the stage where the players have broken the back of the really hard work and now we’re going into more detail on how we play.

“I’m pleased with where we’re at but there’s still a bit to go and it’s all about managing the minutes for everyone.”

The Shrimpers drew 2-2 at League Two side Colchester United on Tuesday night and have not been beaten in their four warm up fixtures so far.

But Maher is not paying attention to any score-lines “I’m not going to read too much into it but we are starting to see the things we want to see and things we’ve worked on,” said Maher.

“But as long as the players feel in a good place that’s all that matters.

“The new signings have settled in well and there’s a decent buzz around the place which is good.”

However, two of the summer signings – Gus Scott-Morriss and Louis Lomas – have both missed the last three matches due to injuries.

But Maher is hopeful Scott-Morriss will be fit to face Gills after recovering from a slight hamstring issue.

“Hopefully Gus will be involved,” said Maher.

“His body is adapting to full-time football but hopefully he will play on Saturday.

“It’s probably a bit too soon for Louis Lomas but he was back out on the grass doing some work yesterday so hopefully after this weekend we will be clearer on him and where he’s at.

“He’s got to get through a certain amount of training before he’s ready to play but Saturday will be another good test for those involved and it will be good to be back at Roots Hall”

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