SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell is expecting a 'good battle' against Walsall at Roots Hall tonight.

The Saddlers have made a surprisingly good start to the season and are currently eighth in the League One table.

And Powell believes they will be tough opponents this evening.

“It’s a long season but they’ve started positively,” said Powell.

“They’ve added one or two players who have made a difference to them but it’s a tough game and it will be a good battle between us.”

Blues will go into the game sitting 12th in the League One table.

And Powell feels that is a fair reflection of their season so far.

“We’re very up and down and our position shows that,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“We’ve won six and lost six so we’re right smack bang in the middle of the table and that’s the way things have panned out for us.

“We’ve had some good wins and some plus points but we’ve had some minuses too.

“But we need to keep our focus and we shouldn’t be too down or lose confidence after Saturday.”

Walsall were also beaten at the weekend, losing 2-0 at Luton Town.