SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is confident the Shrimpers can continue to impress without Kacper Lopata.

The impressive centre-back has been recalled from a loan spell at Roots Hall by his parent club Sheffield United.

But Maher feels Blues still have the defensive capabilities to pick up more points, despite Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge.

“We were disappointed with the other night but that’s part and parcel of football,” said Maher.

“Kacper was a strong player for us but we have to get on with it and there will be an opportunity for someone else now.

“We’ve shown when Kacper missed out on games before that we can cope and we just have to get on with it.

“The players will step up and will deal it.”

Blues beat Dorking Wanderers in the FA Trophy and drew with both Bromley and Solihull in league games when Lopata was unavailable earlier on in the season.

But Blues remain short of defensive cover and Maher did not rule out bringing in a new signing.

"It's something we’ll always look at," said the Blues boss.

"If the right one at the right time is available then I’m sure we will look.

"I’m not going to do it for the sake of doing it but if it suits what we need I’m sure it’s something we will look at.