SOUTHEND United have opted to pull out of the Essex Senior Cup.

The Shrimpers had been due to take on Braintree Town in a fourth road clash on Wednesday night.

But the club have now decided to not to play.

A club statement confirmed: "After two previous postponements of this cup tie, the club has taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the BBC Essex Senior Cup tie with Braintree Town due to fixture congestion.

"In the last week we have had two matches postponed (adding to the game with Dorking Wanderers that is yet to be rearranged), and as such it is not possible to fulfil the fixture without potentially compromising our progress in the Vanarama National League and Isuzu FA Trophy, which is where our focus must be.

"Additionally, our Academy also have a very busy schedule, including a fixture away to MK Dons due to take place tomorrow, as such, many of our under-18 players won’t be available to play.

"In all the circumstances, and after much consideration, we have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition.

"We would like to wish Braintree the best of luck in the next round against Colchester United, which is due to be played before 11 February."