SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is keeping things in perspective ahead of Saturday's clash with Notts County at Roots Hall.

Blues head into the game having suffered back to back defeats for the first time since November.

But Maher is maintaining a balanced viewpoint as he strives to secure a return to winning ways.

“There’s full focus on Saturday now but the players have been brilliant since we’ve come in,” said Maher.

“I saw the stat the other day that we’re second in points for National League sides this year so it’s important to keep things into perspective.

“There’s been a little dip but that’s part and parcel of football.

“I can’t take away from what they’ve done for me and the club and we’ll be looking to keep pushing.

“We’ve missed a few important players recently and that’s contributed to maybe a couple of results but that’s football and luckily there’s always another game to focus on.”

Blues will be without Nathan Ralph (thigh), Abu Ogogo (heart), James Dunne (suspended), Rhys Murphy (knee), Simeon Akinola (knee) and Ollie Kensdale this weekend.

But Maher does expect striker Matt Dennis to be fit, despite him suffering a knee injury at Yeovil last time out, and midfielder Noor Husin is also available again after returning from international duty.

“Matt Dennis was back out on the grass yesterday so that’s good news and Noor is back too,” said Maher.

“He came back yesterday and he’s fine to be involved which is good news.”

The Shrimpers go into the game sitting 13th in the standings and Maher is looking for a strong reaction against a Notts County side currently sixth in the table.

“It’s about responding in the right way,” said Maher.

“We’ll keep working hard and do the things that got us success so hopefully it turns again.

“Of course we’ll look at the opponents but we also look at ourselves.

“We want to improve on what we’ve done and look at what we can do better.

“We’ve obviously watched them and they will have watched us too but we need to get our performance right.”