SOUTHEND United Rob Kiernan is fit to face Rochdale this weekend.

Kiernan, who has played the last four games in midfield for the Shrimpers, was taken off at half-time in Monday's 3-2 win against Burton Albion.

But Blues boss Kevin Bond confirmed Kiernan had not suffered an injury.

"Rob is fine," said Bond.

"He was just at the end of his tether at half-time really against Burton.

"He has been out a long time and he needs a pre-season in him really but he’s come back and has done well.

"He’s playing in the middle of the park which is physically a bit more demanding but he was good to go again after the Walsall game.

"However, he came in at half-time very tired.

"He might have been able to give us another 15 minutes but I saw no reason to do that if he was going to be flagging.

"Luke (Hyam) was raring to go and physically Rob was struggling so we made the change."