MICHAEL Timlin is gutted to be missing tonight’s clash at Roots Hall.

The midfielder is on loan at Southend United from Swindon Town.

But he is suspended for this evening’s encounter and will be therefore be watching the tie from the stands.

“I would obviously love to be playing in the game but I’ll definitely be there,” said Timlin, who was originally also denied permission to play by the Robins.

“It’s a tricky one for me because Swindon pay my wages but I’m with Southend right now and want them to do well so hopefully the lads can keep the good run we’re on going.”

Timlin also missed Southend’s 2-0 defeat at Swindon back in September.

However, he expects the game to be much closer this time around.

“When we played Swindon before we were without Liam Dickinson and Neil Harris who are big players for us,” said Timlin.

“We have them available this time and we’re all feeling confident.”

The clash between the two teams will also enable Blues’ chief executive Tara Brady to hold talks about Timlin’s future with Swindon’s interim chairman Jeremy Wray.

Timlin has so far made 17 appearances during his latest loan spell with Southend which ends at the start of January.