SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has urged his out of favour players to show they should be back in his first team when they line up against Harlow Town in the third round of the Essex Senior Cup tonight.

Cian Bolger, Conor Clifford, Jack Payne and Shaq Coulthirst have all been selected for the clash at Roots Hall, which kicks off at 7.45pm.

And Brown feels it is an important game for those involved.

“We’ve named a strong side and it’s a chance for them to put their hands up for selection at Mansfield Town this weekend,” said Brown.

“We asked our senior players who wanted to play and some of them took up that opportunity and some of them didn’t.

“But there are a few who need a game and it will do them good to get out there.

“Shaq Coulthirst was particularly keen to play and of course if they play well then they will be back in my thoughts for Saturday.”

Places in the side are up for grabs as Blues have not won in their last five games.

And Brown feels tonight’s cup clash will be more competitive than the development matches his fringe players normally play in.

“I think there will be more of an edge to this game and obviously it will be played under the lights at Roots Hall too so that will make it different for them too,” said Brown.

“We will also have a few young lads involved and we’re interested to see how they cope playing up against a men’s team.

“It could well help us decide which of them could benefit from being sent out on loan at this stage of their career.”

England under 19 goalkeeper Ted Smith will line-up between the sticks, while promising midfielder Jack Bridge has also been selected.

In attack, Jason Williams and Isaac Layne will be looking to impress and force their way in to the first team who have managed just three goals in their last six games.

Fellow striker Ellis Brown has been named among the substitutes.

Harlow are currently top of Ryman Division One North and have not been beaten in 17 league games this season.

Top goalscorer Alex Read has already netted 22 goals this term having scored more than 50 times last time around.