SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell has made four changes to his starting line-up for this afternoon's clash at Blackpool.

Centre-back Rob Kiernan has been handed his first start since August 2017 after recovering from knee injuries while Harry Lennon also returns in defence after recovering from the broken leg he suffered against Walsall in October.

As a result, Taylor Moore has surprisingly been selected among the substitutes.

Further forward, Luke Hyam has been chosen in midfield ahead of Michael Klass who does not make the squad while Charlie Kelman has been handed the first senior start of his career with Michael Kightly dropping to the bench.

Stephen McLaughlin is absent from the squad as his wife has gone into labour.

Blues are expected to line up in a 5-3-2 formation.

Southend United: Bishop, Bwomono, Kiernan, Turner, Lennon, Hart, Hyam, Dieng, Mantom, Cox, Kelman

Subs: Smith, Kightly, Yearwood, Moore, Demetriou, Wabo & Bunn