ALBION duo Kerry Mayo and Paul Armstrong are in contention for their first starts of the season.

The midfielders are on standby for tonight's trip to Southend, because Charlie Oatway has only a 50-50 chance of being fit.

Oatway hurt his right ankle in the opening minute of Saturday's FA Cup draw at Peterborough.

The damage was done in a challenge by Simon Davies, which earned the Peterborough player a booking.

Oatway soldiered on until ten minutes from the end, when Mayo took his place. He had stitches in the wound after the match and was unable to train yesterday.

Manager Micky Adams said: "The swelling has transferred itself down into the Achilles. I wouldn't rule him out, but I would say he is 50-50.

"If he doesn't make it I can leave two in midfield and play three up front, or put Paul Armstrong or Kerry Mayo in there."

Irishman Armstrong, fit-again following ankle trouble, has been restricted to four appearances as a substitute this season and Mayo three.

Away specialists Albion have lost only once in the last seven matches and let in just two goals.

Adams said: "We are on a nice little run at the moment and we want to keep it going. The confidence is there and we are looking forward to every game now.

"I thought Southend might be up there challenging for promotion. They are in with the pack and it will be a tough game.

"They have two good wingers we've got to be careful of in Connelly and Houghton, and Carruthers and Tolson up front have been scoring a few goals.

"Alan Little is one of those managers, like myself, who has managed at lower levels. He realises you have got to be fit and organised and they will be."

SOUTHEND SPOTLIGHT - Page 31

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