SOUTHEND United’s caretaker manager Gary Waddock was forced into a late reshuffle ahead of his side’s clash at Tranmere Rovers.

Goalkeeper Mark Oxley had been due to line-up at Prenton Park but was forced to drop out due to personal reasons.

And that meant Waddock handed a recall to Nathan Bishop between the sticks.

“Mark travelled up with us for the game,” said Waddock.

“But he left the hotel to return back home.”

Oxley’s unexpected departure also meant the Shrimpers selected just six substitutes at Prenton Park in a game which saw Waddock pick a new look centre-back pairing as Mark Milligan partnered Joe Shaughnessy at the heart of the back four.

And Waddock was pleased with how the duo both performed in place of Harry Lennon and Rob Kiernan who both went into the clash with injury concerns.

“Harry Lennon had to come off after about 10 minutes against Wimbledon last weekend with a groin injury and Rob rolled his ankle in training but they both put themselves forward to play,”said Waddock.

“I had to do what I felt was right and Milly (Milligan) had been half way round the world and back this week to play for Australia but he’s played back there for his country so I went with him.

“Joe has done really well lately after coming back into the team.

“He’s had a breather and he’s recharged after going out the side.

“But he’s back in now and I have to say I thought they were both very good.”