CHRIS Powell joked he wished Southend United could play at home every week after seeing the Shrimpers thrash MK Dons 4-0 at Roots Hall.

A hat-trick from Theo Robinson saw Blues secure a sixth win in eight home games since Powell was appointed in late January.

But the fine run of results is in stark contrast to Southend’s form on the road.

And Powell is therefore keen to keep on playing at home.

“I suppose I wish we could play at home every week to be honest at this present time,” said the 48-year-old, whose side have not won in their last six away games.

“If it’s where you get your points then so be it but I think I might ring up Oldham and Bradford - who we still have to play away - and ask if we can play them at Roots Hall instead.

“We’re putting all kinds of teams to the sword here but it’s up to me to find a solution to the away form.

“But we can look forward to the next games on the road after a win like this.”

Shrimpers striker Robinson will also be looking forward to tomorrow night’s trip to Oldham Athletic after his impressive display against Dons.

And Powell is starting to feel he should have involved the 29-year-old sooner.

“Theo’s a finisher,” said Powell.

“He’s always in the right place and sometimes I look at him and wonder if I should have played him earlier.

“But I’m pleased for him and the whole team because it was a good performance and a good win.

“There was a bit of despondency around the place both on the training ground and among the supporters following the two defeats but this is a great response.

“As a manager I couldn’t have asked for much more but I would’ve been happy with an ugly 1-0 win.”

The only down-side to the commanding victory was an injury picked up by Anton Ferdinand in the second half.

But Powell - who is already without the injured Ben Coker, Michael Turner and Rob Kiernan at the back - is not sure how long the centre-back will be sidelined for.

“It’s a shame for Anton,” said Powell.

“He felt a knock in the first half but soldiered on and looked really good. He was very composed but he couldn’t carry on.

“I don’t know what the injury is at the moment or how bad it is but hopefully he won’t be out for long.

“However, if he is then the youngsters will play again and I’ll never have any qualms about doing that.”

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