SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley feels Harry Lennon's latest injury setback is a 'bitter blow' for Blues.

The centre-back has suffered a knee injury which will require surgery.

And Molesley expects Lennon to again be sidelined for a significant period of time.

"We’re hoping to see him again before the end of the season but it’s longer term and it’s months rather than weeks which is a bitter blow for us," said Molesley.

"Unfortunately he had been struggling with his knee for a little bit and it ballooned up after the Walsall game.

"He had a scan and had a specialist’s opinion and unfortunately he’s going to have to go under the knife.

"He’s going to be added to the long list of injuries and it’s long term.

"It’s painful to say the least."

Lennon had started nine of the last 10 games for Blues despite playing through the pain with a calf problem.

And the 25-year-old will now also have his calf operated on as well.

"We will look to get his calf done now too and kill two birds with one stone," said Molesley.

"But the length of the knee injury is longer than the compartment syndrome would have been with his calf.

"It’s desperately frustrating because he stood up and was counted in a tough period.

"He put in some great performances and was growing in stature despite his injury."