OLDHAM are looking to the new strike force of Lee Hughes and Darren Byfield to lift them back into the promotion reckoning.

The duo showed how dangerous they can be when paired together for the first time in last week's 1-0 win at Northampton.

Jamaican international Byfield and top scorer Hughes struck up an immediate understanding and will start again at Southend.

Latics' assistant manager Tommy Wright insisted: "Any team that wants to win anything will always look to their strikers.

"Lee and Darren have played at the highest level and have bags of experience as well as quality.

"I am very optimistic they will score at this level and get us back into the mix."

Oldham, who have dropped to seventh spot after taking just 12 points from the last 30, will also be seeking to blank out their shock FA Cup first-round KO at the hands of struggling Cheltenham.

Injury doubts

Injury victims Dean Smalley (hip) and Danny Whitaker (ankle) are again doubtful and will take late tests.

Wright added: "Southend are a physical and strong side who will be a handful.

"We know we will have to be at our best otherwise we won't get anything."

It will be an emotional return for summer signing Kevin Maher who spent 10 years at Roots Hall.

The 32-year-old midfielder said: "I played more than 400 games for Southend and have nothing to prove."

THE FA have hit Latics boss John Sheridan with a two-match touchline ban following his sending-off at Tanmere in September.

He was also fined £500.

STRIKER Chris O'Grady, 22, is back at Oldham after a month's loan spell with League Two neighbours Bury.

Southend league form: DLWDD

Oldham league form: LLWLW

Key opponent: Jean-Francois Christophe - On loan from Portsmouth and a strong midfield performer

Prediction: Southend 1 Oldham 1 - a tough game for Latics but they should earn a point

Agree with the prediction? Have your say.

You can get 7/1 on Oldham winning 1-0 with Betfred. For this and more odds, click here.

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