NEW dad Stephen McLaughlin will be back in the Southend United squad for tomorrow's trip to Scunthorpe United.

The winger missed Saturday's 2-2 draw at Blackpool to be at the birth of his first daughter.

But Blues boss Chris Powell has confirmed the Irishman has now resumed training and will be free to figure against the Iron.

"Stephen McLaughlin has welcomed a new addition to the McLaughlin family which we were very pleased and proud about," said Powell.

"He was nervous about travelling to Blackpool but those moments are with you for life.

"Your family are there for life and football is just a part of it.

"He stayed with his wife which is the right thing to do and he welcomed a young lady to his family.

"But he will be in the squad for Scunthorpe."

McLaughlin had started the previous four games before missing Saturday's long trip north.