We are here for Husin when he needs us - Maher

Southend United boss Kevin Maher says Noor Husin is being given plenty of support by the club as he continues his rehab following a long-term injury.

The Afghan midfielder recently admitted trying to deal with the mental side of the situation was as tough as the physical aspect, external following two operations since he damaged a cruciate ligament against Halifax Town in September.

"I had a real honest conversation with him the other day about what he's feeling, how he's feeling," Maher told BBC Essex.

"When you get to know Noor, the person he is, he's quiet, introverted, quite shy - though he doesn't come across that way when he crosses the white line, of course.

"When you go through that as a player, that can be a dark place for players at times.

"It's important he has the right support around him and is looked after properly because he's done so much for this club.

"He was a huge part of the squad and the lads love him to bits. We're here for him any time he needs us.

"It's sometimes difficult because there's so much going on and when you're injured it can be a lonely place so it's important you have the right structures around you."

Southend are also without club captain Nathan Ralph following knee surgery, but go into Tuesday's home game against Boreham Wood in the National League play-off places.