Millers set for changes

And the Millers chief makes no apologies for the recent omission of striker Daniel Nardiello from the team.

Evans's first signing last summer, the 29-year-old has not started a match since the 6-2 drubbing at Port Vale and sat out last Saturday's goalless draw at York with a groin strain.

Now back to full fitness and having featured in the reserves' behind-closed-doors win at Peterborough United in midweek, there is pressure to bring him back but as with all the players, Evans said places in the team had to be earned.

Evans told the Advertiser: "We want Daniel to do a little bit more and he hasn't been in the starting 11 for that reason.

"He was not the best player on the park against Peterborough but he worked hard and was always a threat.

"I've not had a problem with Daniel. He's a young professional who is dedicated to his job but my job is to pick a team to win football matches."

Evans promised "one or two surprises" for Southend chief Paul Sturrock, while a change in midfield is guaranteed due to the loss of Kari Arnason to international duty.

Striker Alex Revell serves the last of a three-match suspension this weekend while Evans himself completes his six-match stadium ban.