SOUTHEND United striker Noel Hunt could miss out on tonight’s trip to Port Vale due to the impending birth of his first child.

Hunt’s wife Alana is expected to give birth in the next 24 hours.

And means the Irishman, who has featured in 10 of Blues’ last 11 games, could miss out on this evening’s encounter at Vale Park.

“Noel could be missing tonight’s game,” confirmed Shrimpers boss Phil Brown.

“I believe the due date for the baby was yesterday or today so Noel’s on tenterhooks.

“He may decide not to travel and be away from home but if he does train and play then he’ll be doing it for his family as well.

“I’ve seen in the past how that can give players more of an edge and maybe it will with Noel.

“But all I’m thinking about is making sure we get the strongest side out possible against Port Vale and we’re just waiting to find out whether or not that will include Noel.”

David Mooney, who scored after coming on for Hunt in Monday’s 3-1 win against table-topping Burton Albion, is favourite to come into the side if his fellow striker opts to stay at home.

And Brown is expecting a tricky test against a Vale side who have performed well at home this season.

“Port Vale have won eight, drawn seven and only lost once at home so it’s going to be a tough night,” said the Blues boss.

“But if you’re a good footballer this is the type of pitch you should be able to express yourself on.

“We want to start becoming more consistent again and we want to be doing better away from home too.

“It’s also the start of another big week with two home games to come and we want to kick it off with a good result.”

Blues head into the game sitting seventh in the League One standings, two points below the play-offs and four places higher than Vale.