Southend boss Steve Tilson has confirmed Lee Barnard was not risked at Tranmere to keep the in-form striker fresh heading into the play-offs.Barnard has plundered nine goals in 15 appearances since joining the Shrimpers, but a minor calf injury prevented him for figuring at Prenton Park at the weekend.

Tilson took the decision to rest the 23-year-old as the club now gears up to rejoin the Championship at the first time of asking.

"It's nothing serious but there was no need to take a risk on Lee," said Tilson, who is currently running the rule over 18-year-old Fulham winger Max Noble. "It's all about the play-offs now."

Midfielder Anthony Grant, meanwhile, has returned to parent club Chelsea after his three-month loan spell at Roots Hall came to an end following the Tranmere game.

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