Southend United manager Paul Sturrock urges fans to get behind the team against Dagenham & Redbridge (From Echo)

Southend United manager Paul Sturrock urges fans to get behind the team against Dagenham & Redbridge

9:00am Tuesday 9th October 2012 in Blues By Chris Phillips

SOUTHEND United manager Paul Sturrock wants the club’s fans right behind his team for tonight’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash against Dagenham & Redbridge at Roots Hall.

Sections of the home support chanted for the dismissal of chairman Ron Martin during Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Barnet.

But Sturrock wants those supporters at this evening’s second round tie to back Blues.

“The players acknowledge the fans’ frustrations, but we need the crowd behind the whole club at all times,” said Sturrock.

“It definitely makes a difference because when we went 1-0 down on Saturday there were one or two negative songs and I saw that get to my players.

“Their shoulders dropped, and before you knew it we were 2-0 down.

“That doesn’t help anyone so it is really important that the fans stay on side because we are trying to build a positive feeling around Roots Hall.

“That will encourage more fans to come to the games and that in turn will help me make Southend United successful.”

Sturrock will again be selected from a depleted squad this evening with Neil Harris (knee) and Ryan Leonard (hamstring) both ruled out.

Barry Corr and John Spicer are also suspended while Mark Phillips is again doubtful with a groin problem.

But Sturrock, who could hand young midfielder Alex Woodyard a rare start, is keen to get a good result in a bid to reach the latter stages of the competition.

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO