BLUES boss Paul Sturrock has made four changes to his starting line-up for tonight’s clash at Oxford United, with Ryan Hall dropping down on to the bench.

Hall, who has been told to focus on his football by Sturrock amid rumours of move away from Roots Hall , has been replaced by Kevan Hurst.

Captain Chris Barker has also been named among the substitutes, with Ryan Cresswell selected in his place at centre-back while Anthony Straker has come in for Luke Prosser at left-back.

The final change sees midfielder John Spicer coming in for Britt Assaombalonga, meaning Gavin Tomlin has been named as a lone striker.

Cameron Belford keeps his place in goal, with new signing Paul Smith on the bench while Mark Phillips has been named as captain.

Southend United: Belford, Clohessy, Phillips, Cresswell, Prosser, Leonard, Spicer, Tomlin, Hurst, Ferdinand, Tomlin

Substitutes: Hall, Harris, Prosser, Barker, Benyon, Assombalonga & Smith