A QUARTET of first team players will be in action for Southend United’s under-23s at Stevenage this afternoon.

Defender Harry Kyprianou, midfielders Dru Yearwood and Jack Bridge and striker Amadou Ba have all been included in the starting line-up.

And Blues boss Phil Brown insists a positive performance would put them in his thoughts for Saturday’s League One clash with Plymouth Argyle.

“We’ve got four players who have been in the first team squad this season in for the under-23s because they need minutes but it’s a chance for them to impress,” said Brown.

“Harry Kyprianou, Dru Yearwood, Jack Bridge and Amadou Ba will all be playing in the friendly and it’s certainly a chance for them to get in my thoughts.”

However, Anthony Wordsworth is not yet ready to return to action.

The midfielder is still working his way back to full fitness after suffering a hamstring injury in April, which required surgery to cure.

But the 28-year-old - who bagged 12 goals last season - will not be risked against Stevenage.

“Woody isn’t quite ready to play yet,” said Brown.

“Hopefully he’s not going to be out for too much longer.

“But we have to be sensible and not rush him back before he is ready.”