Having to play in goal – Gus Scott-Morriss (Photo: Southend United)

Southend United right-back Gus Scott-Morriss had to play in goal for the Shrimpers following an injury sustained to goalkeeper David Martin in their 2-1 defeat to Bromley.

Corey Whitely gave Bromley the lead just before the break before Michael Cheek doubled their advantage nine minutes into the second half.

As is becoming a recurring theme for Kevin Maher’s side this season, they only had 12 players available for this Vanarama National League clash.

Martin, formerly of West Ham United and son of West Ham legend Alvin, picked up an injury just after the hour-mark and was replaced by Mauro Vilhete.

England C international Scott-Morriss had to play the final 30 minutes in between the sticks as Southend halved the deficit with Brooklyn Kabongolo’s goal ten minutes from time.

Due to the club’s ongoing transfer embargo that has been in place since September 2022, the Shrimpers have been restricted in who they have been able to recruit.

Speaking after the game to the club’s website, Maher expressed how stretched the squad are at the moment.

“We can’t take much more, something’s got to change,” he said.

“You look at what the players and staff have done, for me it’s papering over what’s going on.

“You can’t go into a game with one sub, but that’s the situation we’re in.

“Bromley are second in the league and they’re a good, good side and we’ve got an outfield player in goal.

“The way we played tells me that if we’re allowed to work properly, we’d be matching them at least and pushing Chesterfield.”

Southend are next in action when they make the trip to Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday.