Striker blow for Shrimpers

Southend striker Charles Ademeno has been ruled out of action for eight weeks.

Southend striker Charles Ademeno has been ruled out of action for eight weeks. The 18-year-old will miss the start of the season after having an operation on his knee. "Charles went in for exploratory surgery and it revealed a cartilage problem," said manager Steve Tilson. "It's something he first picked up on loan at Cambridge United last season and it's troubled him on and off all season. "The surgeon has cleaned up the torn cartilage in his knee and he's probably going to be out for two months, which is a shame."