Echo:

SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell wants his side to hit the right notes on and off the pitch in Spain today.

The Shrimpers will face Aberdeen’s development side for their second pre-season friendly of the summer this morning before watching England’s World Cup semi-final against Croatia.

And Powell will have the Blues squad singing the national anthem before the Three Lions get underway.

“We arranged to watch the two semi-finals together as a group,” said Powell.

“Last night was France against Belgium and we obviously have two French players in our squad. Tim (Dieng) and Amadou (Ba) will have been singing the national anthem before kick-off.

“But tonight there will be a lot more of us singing it and hopefully we are going to be watching an England win.

“Croatia will be tough opposition but we have our own game to think about first.”

Blues began their pre-season schedule with a convincing 5-0 win at Great Wakering Rovers on Saturday.

And Powell is looking forward to his team getting back on the pitch.

“It will be good to get another game under our belts but I’m not sure whether or not we will do three lots of 30 minutes or just the normal 45 minutes each way,” said the Blues boss.

“I will need to talk to Aberdeen before the game but I think a lot is also going to depend on the weather. The players have been working very hard but last night’s session was slightly easier with this game in mind.”

Powell confirmed midfielder Luke Hyam would feature for the Shrimpers after he missed out with a slight knock at the weekend, but right-back Ben Mundele is a doubt.