CAULEY Woodrow insists Southend United’s confidence has not been dented by their midweek defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge.

The Shrimpers were beaten 1-0 by the Daggers at Roots Hall on Tuesday night.

But the on-loan Fulham forward is backing Blues to bounce back to winning ways at Newport County this weekend.

“It was another good performance on Tuesday, despite the result, so we all still feel good and confident ahead of Saturday’s game,” said the 18-year-old.

“Apart from the opening 20 minutes I thought we were the better team against Dagenham and that was with 10 men.

“So we’re looking forward to tomorrow and, although Newport are doing well, I think we can go there and get the three points.

“I certainly don’t think there will be a big dip in results like last time when the team’s run of three straight wins came to an end earlier on in the season.”

Woodrow is also determined to continue his improvement in a Shrimpers shirt.

The youngster was selected as man of the match against Dagenham.

And he is enjoying his new role in the side which sees him featuring more on the left-hand side of the attack.

“I like it out there but I also like to get involved centrally and that’s what the manager wants from me,” said Woodrow.

“I’ve still been getting chances and hopefully I can put one away tomorrow to help us get a good result.”

Woodrow looks set to stay in an attacking role against Newport County, with manager Phil Brown insisting Freddy Eastwood was not yet fit enough to be selected in the starting line-up.

The suspended John White and Mark Phillips will join the injured Adam Thompson, Marc Laird and Julian Bennett on the sidelines.

But Craig Reid — who could be facing his former side — will face a late fitness check on an ankle injury.

And Brown is expecting another difficult afternoon.

“Newport have momentum behind them after winning promotion and they’re doing well,” said the Blues boss.

“They play some nice football but then so do we, so it should be a good game.

“It’s also the first time I’ve been there since 1979, so I’m looking forward to it too.”