ECHOSPORT talks to Dagenham & Redbridge fan Joel Page ahead of Saturday's match with Southend United.

Dagenham are currently 13th in the table. What have you made of the season so far?

"Expectations were scaled back in tandem with the budget, following a steady stream of high-profile departures leading into Strevens' first full season, but it's still been largely underwhelming.

"Admittedly, performances have improved enormously since the new year, however by that point we were already confined to mid-table at best, having also tumbled out of both cup competitions at the very first hurdles against lower-division opponents no less."

What are your hopes for the rest of the season now?

"Such is the congestion at the bottom that we're only a couple of poor results from being dragged right back into the dogfight, so first and foremost we have to pull far away.

"Then it's about finishing as strongly as possible and continuing the progress we've finally begun to show."

It's one defeat in six games now. Do you feel there have been signs of improvement?

"We're a much better side than a few months ago.

"The defensive unit has always been reasonably stable but the areas ahead are where the transformation has occurred.

"The energetic influence of Keenan Appiah-Forson has revolutionised a previously feeble midfield, bringing the best out of its other members Jake Hessenthaler and Josh Rees, who've looked different players in slightly more advanced roles.

"The attack has substance to it now, as well, albeit its effectiveness hinges so much on Inih Effiong that his current injury until early April at the earliest was enough to fuel real fear about going down."

Who have been the best players for you this season?

"That man Effiong, Ryan Hill, and most recently Josh Rees have been outstanding in spells, but Tom Eastman has maintained high standards at the heart of our defence all season.

"He was the no-nonsense powerhouse we desperately needed there and has not disappointed."

What's the team news?

"Effiong is the main absentee and, as extraordinarily well as centre half Harry Phipps did up front last weekend, there's been much pressure to get a direct replacement through the door.

"That has been answered with the loan acquisition of Middlesbrough's Daniel Nkrumpah, who will likely make an instant debut.

"I can't see any changes besides."