ECHOSPORT talks to Chesterfield fan Rob Lawson ahead of Friday's game at the Proact Stadium.

Chesterfield are currently second from bottom in the League One table and seem certain to suffer relegation. Why do you feel this season has gone so badly?

“They haven’t replaced good players with those of equal ability and have relied on non league players who are good but not in League One.

“That’s been the biggest problem and it’s why we now find ourselves in such a poor position.

“It’s been really disappointing to watch.”

Chesterfield are now nine points from safety with four games to go. Is relegation now a foregone conclusion and could it be confirmed today?

“I resigned myself to relegation a month or so ago.

“It’s inevitable now unfortunately.

“If we don’t win against Southend we’re down, it’s as simple as that because of our woeful goal difference of minus 27.”

Echo:

Chesterfield fan - Rob Lawson

Gary Caldwell has been in charge since January. How has he been doing since taking over from Danny Wilson?

“I like Caldwell and I don’t think you can judge him yet as he’s inherited a load of rubbish from the previous two managers.

“You won’t really be able to make a fair judgement until he’s been in charge for longer and has been able to make signings and let a few leave.

“But unfortunately it will happen in League Two.”

What players will Southend need to keep an eye on today?

“Joe Rowley is the player you need to keep an eye on.

“Caldwell has brought him from the youth set up and although he’s only 17 he’s class.

“He scored the winning goal against Port Vale in our last game.”

What’s the team news ahead of the game?

“I would expect the starting line-up to be the same as it was against Port Vale at the weekend.”

What’s the predicted starting line-up?

“Stuckmann in goal. Dan Jones, Sam Hird, Tom Anderson and Paul McGinn across the back Dan Gardner, Conor Dimaio, Dion Donahue and Jon Nolan will be in midfield with Joe Rowley and Kristian Dennis up front.”