DAN Mooney is again expected to be missing when Southend United head to York City tomorrow.

Mooney has missed Blues’ last three games with a groin problem.

And Blues boss Kevin Maher does not expect the midfielder to be back in time to take on the Minstermen.

“Probably not before the weekend,” said Maher when asked when Mooney would be back.

“He’s had a tight groin we’ve got to make sure is right before he’s up to speed.

“He hasn’t trained yet but fingers crossed it won’t be too long until he’s back involved. “ Goalkeeper Steve Arnold remains sidelined with back and hip issues while Nathan Ralph – who has missed the last six games – will again be missing with a fractured little toe.

“Ralphy hopefully isn’t too bad and he’s beginning to be able to put some weight through it,” said Maher.

“We’re hoping to get him out on the grass soon, touch wood.”

Jake Hyde is available again after missing Tuesday night’s 3-0 win at Maidstone United due to the match being played on an artificial pitch.

But striker Harry Cardwell – who has yet to play this season – is still working his way back to full fitness after an ankle injury, “He missed a full pre-season so it’s about trying to build him up,” explained Maher.

“Going Saturday Tuesday like we are it’s been hard to get a game in for him which is what we wanted to do.

“That’s been unfortunate but we will have to keep on pushing him in training.

“He’s got to get over that period where the muscles are sore and you’ve got to train the next day.

“We want to get him in the right place so when he does come back in he stays in.”

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>Blues boss Kevin Maher previews clash with York City