Southend defender Adam Barrett is edging closer to a return ahead of the visit of Rochdale.

The centre-half has been out for five weeks with the hamstring injury he suffered while scoring at Millwall last month.

Barrett was due to resume training this week but may need a reserve run-out before being considered for a first-team return.

Striker Noel Hunt remains a doubt with an ankle injury but fit-again Kevan Hurst could return to the squad.

Rochdale defensive pair Joe Rafferty (stomach strain) and Rhys Bennett (hamstring) are still doubts ahead of the long trip.

Both men were absent for Dale's 0-0 draw against Oldham last weekend and will be assessed.

Calvin Andrew and Donal McDermott are pushing for starts after being dropped to the bench.

Dale boss Keith Hill could start Nathaniel Mendez-Laing in place of midfielder Peter Vincenti, who completed just under an hour of action on his return from injury.