SOUTHEND United midfielder Will Atkinson has completed a three match suspension but may have to wait for his next opportunity to impress.

Atkinson started 16 of the Shrimpers’ previous 17 league games before being sent off at Millwall.

But Blues boss Phil Brown hinted the 28-year-old may not come straight back into the starting line up at Gillingham.

“Will knows the style of manager that I am,” said Brown.

“We’ve had many chats over the past four years and he knows that if somebody replaces someone and does well enough individually and collectively the team does well too then I’ll reward that player and he will keep his shirt.

“While Will has been out with his ban we’ve got seven points from nine, had two away victories, scored eight goals and kept a clean sheet.

“But it’s not just about the team’s performance, it’s about the individual who has gone in there too.”

Jermaine McGlashan has returned to the side during Atkinson’s absence.

And Brown will be forced to pick between them for this weekend’s clash.

“A team with Will in is full of energy but he cannot deny we have played well enough to win all the games he has missed,” said Brown.

“Will’s a real team player and he came to watch all three of the games he was suspended for.

“There is no denying it is a difficult one for me.

“There will definitely be opportunities for Will but whether or not that’s on Saturday remains to be seen.”