Cash-strapped Southend go into their FA Cup clash with Gillingham desperate to move into the second round.

The Shrimpers narrowly avoided going into administration this week over a tax bill in excess of £2million and know that a healthy cup run would boost their ailing coffers.

Manager Steve Tilson has been handed a boost ahead of the clash with Mark Stimson's men, with veteran striker Dougie Freedman returning to training.

The former Scotland international missed last weekend's league win over the Gills with a groin strain, while Damien Scannell (foot) is also back in contention.

Jean-Yves M'Voto will not play, though, after making the decision to have his hip injury operated on, while top scorer Lee Barnard and midfielder Alan McCormack are both suspended.