BLUES' top goalscorer Gavin Tomlin is facing a spell on the sidelines after pulling a thigh muscle in training.

Tomlin picked up the problem on Friday afternoon.

And Southend boss Paul Sturrock felt the 15 goal striker was missed by his side against Oxford United.

“I think Saturday showed just how influential Gav is to the way we play,” said Sturrock.

“We certainly missed him out there and it was a blow to see him pick up the injury.

“But we do have a lot of options in attack now and hopefully they will be able to step up during the time Gav is out injured.”

It is not yet known how long Tomlin will be missing for but he is currently on crutches to keep the weight off his injury.