SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell will look to utilise the club's academy after failing to strengthen his squad during the transfer window.

Campbell insists the Shrimpers are still looking to make new signings before the window closes at the end of the week.

But Campbell is more than willing to continue with what he already has at his disposal.

“It is what it is,” said Campbell.

“Some of our targets have been and gone now.

“I think we have to utilise what we’ve got in the academy.

“If we can get someone in we will get someone in but we will see who we can elevate and who can swim and who will sink.

“It is what it is and I have to get on with it.

“I’m not dealing with that side of things.”

Blues have allowed Simon Cox and Tom Hopper to leave during the transfer window while Rob Kiernan will make his final appearance for the club tonight.

Loanees Layton Ndukwu and Ethan Hamilton have both returned to their parent clubs while Theo Robinson has gone back to Colchester United on loan.

The Shrimpers have been unable to bring anyone in in the opposite direction and now seem set to give more of their youngsters a chance.

Seven members of Blues' matchday squad last time out against Accrington Stanley came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall.