SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown believes AFC Wimbledon have been the surprise package of the League One season so far.

Dons, who were promoted via the League Two play-offs last term, are currently ninth in the League One table.

And Brown has impressed by the Dons’ progress this term.

“I think Wimbledon have been the surprise package of the season so far,” said the Blues boss.

“They came up via the last chance saloon of the play-offs, just like ourselves and have adjusted well to the new league.

“They’ve got some good results and there’s a bit of the old Wimbledon about that at times as well because they can be quite direct in towards Tom Elliott.

“They’re on the up so we’re in tough game because they’re a good team.

“I know the manager well and his assistant Neal Cox was captain when I was at Bolton so I know they will be well organised.”

Blues look set to have to make at least one change to their starting line-up on Monday as striker Nile Ranger is likely to miss out with a thigh problem.

Simon Cox (groin) faces a late check on his fitness.

But left-back Ben Coker (ankle), striker David Mooney (ankle) and centre-back Ryan Inniss (shoulder) are all still absent but Jakub Sokolik is available again after recovering from illness.