SIMEON Akinola could return when Southend United host Crawley Town this weekend but a late check will be needed on Jacob Mellis.

The duo both missed Tuesday night's 1-1 draw at Morecambe.

But Blues boss Mark Molesley is hopeful Akinola, who had a groin injury, will be able to return on Saturday.

"We’ve rested Sim Akinola and hopefully he might be training tomorrow," said Molesley.

"He wasn't fit for Tuesday but we'll see how he is for the weekend."

And Molesley will also be checking on Mellis who is suffering with a knee problem.

"Jacob has picked up an injury which is ongoing and we’re looking at at the moment," said Molesley.

"His knee has flared up.

"It’s an old, historic injury and unfortunately it’s flared up a little bit so we will need to keep an eye on it."

Akinola has scored twice in 23 appearances this season while Mellis has made three substitute appearances since signing from Gillingham on transfer deadline day.