SOUTHEND United left-back Tom Clifford was forced to drop out of the starting line-up for tonight's clash with Forest Green Rovers after his back went into spasm.

Clifford had been to start the League Two match at Roots Hall.

But Blues boss Mark Molesley was forced into making a late change with Harry Kyprianou coming into play. 

"Tom's back went into spasm literally right before the game," said Molesley.

"He went in to see the physio Amy and she was trying to release it off but it didn’t.

"The teams were in the tunnel, that’s literally how late it was.

"It was another disruptive measure but these things happen."