CHRIS Barker knows Blues must improve at the back if they are to maintain a push for promotion this season.

The Southend United skipper has seen his side concede nine goals in their six league outings so far.

And the centre-back is fully aware they must start to shut out their opponents more regularly if they are to remain towards the top of the League Two table. “We do a lot of work on our back four and the back six but you wouldn’t think we did at the moment because we’re letting in too many goals,” said Barker, 30.

“We kept 12 clean sheets last season but only have one in the league this year so we know we need to start getting a few more if we are to be in the hunt for promotion.”

Only Port Vale and Wimbledon have conceded more goals than Southend among the top 18 teams in the division and they were frustrated to let in two against Northampton Town on Saturday.

Blues had seemed set for all three points when they raced in to a 2-0 lead at Roots Hall.

But their defensive frailties meant they were forced to settle a share of the spoils.

“In the end it was a frustrating afternoon for us but we’ve had a good week,” said Barker.

“We won at Port Vale, who are a strong team, and then got through to the next round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy by beating Crawley.

“Drawing with Northampton has made that three unbeaten for us and we want to keep the run going when we go to Swindon on Saturday.”

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO