Southend United are battling a severe and prolonged sickness bug that continues to disrupt their squad ahead of Saturday's FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie against Berkhamsted. Manager Kieron Dyer confirmed the illness is the worst he has seen, forcing potential lineup changes and complicating preparations for the visit of the step three side.
Dyer said the bug is affecting the team for their last three matches. Two more players missed training on Thursday with sickness and diarrhoea, adding to a list of absentees that includes summer signing Rico Richards and defender Ben Goodliffe. Richards, who was due to make his debut after recovering from a hamstring issue, is among those suffering. Dyer said of the forward that he missed Tuesday with sickness but reported today and will have to be monitored. A final decision on Richards will depend on whether he can train on Friday.
Goodliffe had to be substituted due to illness during last Saturday's 2-1 win at Boston United and has been battling a chest infection requiring antibiotics. He returned to training on Thursday but his fitness is being assessed. The situation has opened a door for on-loan Brighton defender Sean Keogh, who played for his parent club in midweek to gain minutes and is now in contention for his Southend debut. Midfielder Harry Taylor is also pushing for a start.
Dyer warns of cup shock danger
Ahead of the tie at Roots Hall, Dyer emphasised the mental challenge for his side, who sit third in the National League. He warned his players and staff against any complacency facing lower-league opposition. Dyer said he has analysed Berkhamsted multiple times and will show them the same respect as a National League rival like Harrogate or Boreham Wood. He described the visitors as having a 'free hit' with no expectations, making them a dangerous proposition. The winners of the match will receive £9,375 in prize money, with a replay required if the game ends level.
For FC Halifax Town, who travel to face Southend in the league next Saturday, the Shrimpers' disrupted preparation could be a factor. Halifax sit 10th in the National League with 20 points from 13 games and are in strong form, having won their last three matches, including a 4-2 victory over Stoke City U21s. They will face a Southend side currently seven places and nine points above them in the standings. Dyer hopes his team can handle their health issues and progress, stating the FA Cup is a really important game and that he wants to be in the draw for the first round proper. The final call on Rico Richards' involvement will be made after Friday's training session.
More detail at Southend Echo
