SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell was not willing to risk Michael Kightly against Blackpool on Saturday.

The winger picked up a hamstring problem at Bury the last time Blues faced three games in quick succession.

And Powell did not want to suffer a repeat at the weekend.

"Kights is a good player and I like him but the last time we had a three game week we lost him for a little bit with a hamstring injury and that was on my mind on Saturday,” said Powell.

Kightly has scored five goals in 23 appearances so far this season.