SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is still seeking clarification on the club’s goalkeeping situation ahead of Saturday’s match at Altrincham.
Nick Hayes has started the last five matches between the sticks for the Shrimpers after signing on loan from Ipswich Town.
But, with David Martin now back in full training after recovering from a hamstring issue, Maher is looking into what is possible while still under a transfer embargo.
“Hopefully it will become clearer by the end of the week,” said Maher.
“We should know more about that situation then.”
Hayes was only allowed to join Blues after Martin was injured and Martin himself could only be registered to play after Collin Andeng Ndi suffered an ankle problem against York City.
However, the Shrimpers will definitely be without Harry Taylor this weekend.
The defender picked up his fifth yellow card of the season during the 1-1 draw at Boreham Wood last time out.
And he will sit out Saturday’s clash with a one match ban.
“Harry has been brilliant for us this year in a slightly different role,” said Maher.
“He's a versatile player and he's someone who is very reliable.
“He performs to a high standard so it will be a loss but it's an opportunity for someone else.”
Taylor looks set to be replaced in the starting line-up by Brooklyn Kabongolo but Blues will still be without striker Callum Powell (knee), midfielder Cav Miley (thigh) and defender Jason Demetriou (hamstring).
Louis Lomas, who has yet to play this season, had surgery on a groin issue today and will again miss out this weekend.
But Maher confirmed attacking midfielder Dan Mooney was available again.
“He's trained fully all week with us,” said Maher.
“He's in and around us and will be involved in the game on Saturday.”
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