Kevin Betsy, Osei Sankofa and Ian Joyce are vying to make their competitive debuts for Southend in the Carling Cup clash at home to Cheltenham.The trio could all be involved from the start if boss Steve Tilson decides to ring the changes for the cup.

Winger Damian Scannell and striker James Walker came through the game unscathed following groin and thigh problems respectively and should be in the squad to face the Robins.

Fellow forward Lee Barnard is set to continue in attack alongside Walker.

Transfer-listed midfielder Nicky Bailey is again likely to miss out after Charlton manager Alan Pardew's admission that he hopes to sign the player this week.

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