SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley does not expect goalkeeper Alex Bass to play again this season.

The on loan Portsmouth goalkeeper lasted just 45 minutes on his Shrimpers debut against Salford City on Saturday.

And Molesley feels Bass will now not be back in action until next season.

"Unfortunately I think that will be Alex done for the season now," said Molesley.

"We’re gutted for him first and foremost because he’s a young goalkeeper with great pedigree.

"He was making his comeback from an injury and we were fortunate to get him.

"It’s bitterly disappointing for us as well because we had done well to find such a good quality goalkeeper at such late notice.

"We’re really disappointed because we’ve lost two top class goalkeepers within 24 hours after Mark Oxley was injured too.

"It’s a bitter pill to swallow but that’s the scenario we face and we have to get on with it."