SOUTHEND United striker Simon Cox will miss Wednesday night's Checkatrade Trophy clash at Luton Town with a knee injury.

Cox picked up the problem during Saturday’s 4-2 defeat against Barnsley in the second round of the FA Cup.

And Blues boss Chris Powell will not risk Blues’ top scorer against the Hatters at Kenilworth Road.

“Simon has an impact injury after he went in for a heavy, heavy challenge on Saturday and he won’t play at Luton,” said Powell.

“He came off against Barnsley because I didn’t want to lose another player but unfortunately I have for this game.

“He’s got bruising and fluid around his knee but fingers crossed that’s all it is and we can have him available for the Portsmouth game on Saturday.”