SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell believes there is no point moaning about the Shrimpers’ current predicament.

The second bottom Blues remain under a transfer embargo and the vast majority of the squad have still not been paid for February.

But Campbell is keen to focus on the football and preparing his young squad for tomorrow’s clash with Bristol Rovers at Roots Hall.

“You can keep on moaning about things but the main thing is to prepare the team in the best way for the weekend,” said Campbell.

“That’s all I can do and that’s all I want to deal with.

“It’s a joy to work with the youngsters because they’re really trying their hardest to make it happen.

“The few experienced players we have are hanging in there too and we’re getting the maximum out of the guys.

“They’re working really hard.”

Despite their best efforts, the Shrimpers have been beaten in their last six outings.

But Campbell has been encouraged by aspects of his team’s performances.

“We played fantastically well at Oxford and we want to stay in games and cause the teams problems,” said Campbell.

“Yes, mistakes will come because of youth but we’re working hard and it’s promising for the future. We have to go with the same attitude and be a bit sharper if we can too.

“We have to be more alert in both boxes.”

However, Campbell was keen to point out just how tough it had been for Blues.

“We have so many young players, it’s almost like a youth team playing against grown men,” said Campbell.

“This situation is not normal and the fans have to realise that.

“We’re trying our hardest and we will win games but it’s hard out there.

“We don’t have that quality and experience out there but we have to get on with it.”

Blues will be without midfielder Mark Milligan, who has a fractured cheekbone, this weekend while defenders Joe Shaughnessy (ankle) and Timothee Dieng (hamstring) face late fitness tests.

Midfielders Sam Mantom and Jason Demetriou are ready to return.