SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell feels it is a blow to be without top goalscorer Jason Demetriou for Saturday’s clash with Rotherham United at Roots Hall.

Demetriou will miss the match after being called up for Cyprus’ international friendly against Montenegro on Friday.

And, despite being pleased for his right-back, Powell is disappointed to lose Demetriou for this weekend’s encounter.

“It’s a blow to be without Jason,” said Powell.

“But he’s very proud to play for his country and I can’t stop that.

“It’s actually great for us to have an international player but it means we will lose him for a game.”

Demetriou has been among Blues’ best players this season and currently tops their scoring charts with eight goals.

The right-back has started the last 21 games and will be replaced by either Elvis Bwomono or Anton Ferdinand this weekend.

Ferdinand missed Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Blackpool with an illness but should recover in time for Rotherham’s visit.

His inclusion would see John White move to right-back or Powell could opt to recall Bwomono.

The 19-year-old has made eight appearances so far this season and could be handed his first League start since the Shrimpers suffered a 4-1 defeat at Doncaster Rovers in early October.

“Jason being away will open the door for someone else like Elvis or we could put John there,” said Powell.

“We will deal with it but I trust young players, just like I’m showing with Dru Yearwood.

“Elvis is a player who has trained with us and is doing all the work with us too.

“I see him as part of the first team squad and with the attributes he has I would have no qualms playing him against Rotherham.

“He’s going to be a very, very good player.

“He’s got a lot of talent and is another one of our good academy players coming through.”