SOUTHEND United winger Kevan Hurst was forced to miss Friday night’s clash at Braintree Town with a suspected illness.

Hurst watched on the sidelines as the Shrimpers were beaten 2-1 by the Iron.

And boss Phil Brown believes Hurst is also unlikely to figure against West Ham United at Roots Hall on Saturday.

“Kevan Hurst trained on Friday but then went for a blood test after seeing the doctor afterwards,” said Brown.

“There’s a bit of virus going around and I didn’t want to take any risks with him.

“He’s unlikely to be involved against West Ham but he should be OK to play when we face Canvey Island.”