Southend United's strength of character will face a stern examination in the next five days - according to Shrimpers skipper Kevin Maher.

Steve Tilson's side will clock up more than 800 miles for their next two outings - away at Cardiff City and Barnsley.

And Maher is keen to see his side rise to the occasion.

"We're about to see exactly what we're made of," said the captain.

"Both of these away games we have coming up in quick succession are a long way from home and will require us to roll our sleeves up and get stuck in.

"It will be a big test of our character and we need to make sure we pass it if we are to get the results we want and need."

Blues face Cardiff first this Saturday before heading to Barnsley on Tuesday for an FA Cup replay.

Victory at Oakwell could set up another trip to Maher's former Tottenham Hotspur team.

But, despite that incentive, Maher would rather win in the Championship as the Seasiders bid to avoid an immediate return to League One.

"The League remains the priority and we have to keep on picking up points," he said.

"We need something from the match at the weekend and hopefully we can show Cardiff how much we've improved because we never got into the game against them earlier on in the season."