SOUTHEND United will field a strong starting line-up against Brentwood Town in the Essex Senior Cup on Tuesday night.

Blues take on the Isthmian North outfit at Roots Hall.

And coach Mark Bentley confirmed Nathan Ralph, Dan Mooney and Harry Cardwell are all likely to be involved.

"This game will be perfect for those who have been out for a few weeks," said Bentley.

"Cardwell, Mooney and Ralphy will play and it will tick some boxes for the sports science guys.

"It can get them back into contention and, with how well the other boys are doing at the moment, everyone wants to be part of it so this game will be key for them."

Defender Ralph has missed Blues' last 10 games with a fractured little toe while Dan Mooney came off the bench late on against Dorking Wanderers on Saturday having been ruled out of the previous six matches with a groin problem.

Striker Cardwell has come off the bench for the Shrimpers' last two games having been out since May with an ankle problem.

But Bentley is still expecting a stern test against a Brentwood side who are ninth in Isthmian North.

"Brentwood will be tough opposition," said Bentley.

"I know them quite well from my time at Canvey and they're certainly no mugs.

"They're strong for their level and it's an opportunity for them to come and play at a stadium some of them won't have sampled before.

"They will be well up for it and we'll have to make sure we're on the ball.

"We'll be taking it seriously and we want to win every game so we'll be carrying on that approach."

Echosport understands Blues' youth team players will now be available for selection after being paid their October wages on Monday afternoon.

Tuesday's cup clash kicks off at 7.45pm.

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