SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is hoping Jack Bridge and Collin Andeng Ndi can both return from injury when the Shrimpers head to Bishop’s Stortford on Saturday.
Left wing-back Bridge has missed both of Blues’ pre-season matches so far this summer with a quad injury while goalkeeper Andeng Ndi has missed out with a hip problem.
But Maher is keen for them both to return this weekend.
“We will have to wait and see how they close they are but we want to get them both playing,” said the Shrimpers head coach.
“We’ll see how they are and we certainly won’t take any risks but it would be nice for them to get some minutes if we can.
“We want to start getting them involved.”
Without Andeng Ndi available, youth team shot-stopper Charlie Brown lined up between the sticks at Canvey Island on Tuesday night and helped Maher's side record a 2-1 victory.
That followed Saturday's 5-0 win at Great Wakering Rovers in a match which saw Shrimpers defender Harry Taylor suffer a nasty looking cut on his forehead.
Taylor will again be missing against Bishop's Stortford.
But Maher is expecting another good work-out as Blues take on their Southern League Premier Central hosts for the second pre-season in succession.
"It’s always a good welcome there and the pitch is very good too," said Maher.
"It will be a good game and Steve Castle is in charge there now so I’m sure they will make it competitive as well."
The Shrimpers are again expected to include former Southampton defender Zuriel Otseh-Taiwo in their squad.
Otseh-Taiwo is currently on trial with Blues and has featured in the opening two pre-season friendlies.
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