SOUTHEND United's friendly with Ipswich Town, which was scheduled to take place on Friday, has been called off.

Blues currently have a squad of just nine first team players.

And new boss Paul Sturrock revealed yesterday how he felt the Ipswich game could have been organised too soon.

“I can field a team at the moment but it would mean me playing on the left wing, so I will certainly be having a chat with Ipswich," said Sturrock

“On their first day back (yesterday) the players have been put through some tests and will continue to work on their aerobic fitness.

“But playing a game is different and might not be the right thing to do because I don’t really see the point in packing the team out with trialists either.”

Fans who have purchased tickets for the game can obtain a full refund from the club's ticket office or swap the ticket for the friendly against Derby County on Monday July 19.

Southend's first pre-season game will now be at Canvey Island on Monday, kick off 7.45pm.