SOUTHEND United skipper Chris Barker has told his team-mates to remain focused on their push for promotion.

Blues could be facing five games in three different competitions during a busy 17-day schedule, which starts at Dagenham on Saturday.

But Barker does not want his side to become distracted from their league campaign.

“Getting this club back in to League One is what matters the most for us this season,” said Barker.

“There is always a danger that we could lose focus with the cup games taking places.

“However, we have two or three squad meetings a week at the moment and everyone will be reminded about just how important the league is.

“Things are going well at the moment and, points-wise, we’re probably half way towards getting promotion.

“Another 40 points might be enough to clinch it but we can’t afford to let the cup competitions get in the way.”

Blues face Preston North End in an FA Cup first round replay at Roots Hall next Tuesday.

And they have also worked their way into the southern semi-finals of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy when they host Swindon Town in early December.

As a result, Southend are now just two rounds away from reaching a Wembley final and that is starting to excite Barker.

“You could argue that it might be better to go out of the cup competitions early on when you’re going for promotion, but you definitely don’t get too many chances to play at Wembley in your career,” said Barker, 31.

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO