SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher thinks his side are starting the National League season with one of the toughest possible tests at this level.

Blues host Boreham Wood on in their opening game of the campaign on Saturday.

And Maher is fully aware how difficult the game will be.

"It doesn’t come any tougher really," said Maher.

"They’ve recruited ever so well in the summer and we know how good they were last year too.

"They tailed away a little bit but they had a great cup run and they will ask questions of us.

"Hopefully we’ll ask some questions too and I think it will be a tough game for both teams."

Among those to have joined Boreham Wood this summer is former Blues loanee Zak Brunt who will spend the season with Luke Garrard's side from Sheffield United.

But Maher knows Saturday’s opponents boast a number of good players.

"Zak did well for us and he’s an excellent player but they have a few of them including Jack Payne who they've brought in too," said Maher.

"We’ll have to be on top of our game if we're going to win it."

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>Team news for Blues' match with Boreham Wood