SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley has explained why Tom Clifford was taken off against Bolton Wanderers.

Clifford was replaced by Sam Hart for the final 12 minutes at Roots Hall on Saturday.

And Molesley made the change to ensure energy levels were kept high.

"It was a tactical change," explained Molesley.

"We have three games this week. We have a very attacking left-back in Sam Hart to come on and I felt like we were in the ascendancy.

"We have five substitutes we can make and with a lot of games coming up we have to make sure we share the load.

"We want to finish the game with the same energy we start it with.

"We were pleased with Tom and we’re very pleased with his progress.

"But sometimes we’re going to be passing the baton on to make sure we finish the game with the same energy and conviction, if not more."