THEO Robinson is pushing for a place in Southend United’s starting line-up at Oxford United tonight.

The striker has come off the bench in Blues’ last two games after returning to Roots Hall from Lincoln City.

But Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is now considering handing the 28-year-old a start at the Kassam Stadium.

“Theo is very much in my thoughts for the game this evening,” said Brown.

“I think he’s made an impact coming off the bench in the last two games, just like Jermaine McGlashan has done, so it’s certainly given me something to think about.

“At the same time I’m aware Theo can have an impact coming off the bench but I’ll be looking at the squad closely and deciding what’s best to do.”

Eighth placed Blues head into the game looking to bounce back from Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Millwall.

And Brown insists his side are ready to take on an Oxford team who have triumphed in eight of their last nine games.

“Our last five games have all been against form teams and tonight is no different,” said Brown.

“But we’ve lost twice in 18 games so we’re a form team too and we’re more than ready for the game this evening against another very good side.”

Blues midfielder Ryan Leonard is expected to be fit despite a slight ankle problem while Nile Ranger has also been included in the travelling squad but Brown would not confirm whether or not the striker would make the final 18.