Southend United midfielder Lewis Hunt is hoping to replace suspended Shrimpers skipper Kevin Maher against Wycombe Wanderers tomorrow.

The versatile 22-year-old hasn't figured in the Seasiders starting line-up since the opening day defeat to Cheltenham Town.

But Hunt revealed he was relishing the prospect of returning to face the Chairboys as Steve Tilson's side seek to continue their winning streak and surge up the League Two table.

"I'm hoping to get a game but it's the manager's decision at the end of the day," said the former Derby County man.

"I'd like to think he's going to pick me but we'll just have to wait and see what happens."

However Hunt admitted he had become frustrated by his lack of first teamchances after enjoying a successful loan stint with the Seasiders last season.

"It's been disappointing for me because I felt I had a good pre season and played well in our friendlies," he said.

"I played the first game but haven't been picked since and I certainly wasn't expecting to be out of the side for so long. It's very frustrating."

And the versatile youngster added he had even held talks with Blues boss Steve Tilson concerning his prolonged period on the Shrimpers substitutes bench.