Southend United boss Steve Tilson has confirmed that he is stepping up his bid to extend defender George Friend's stay at Roots Hall.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back has spent the last month on loan at the Blues.

But with that deal set to expire after Saturday's match with Bristol Rovers, Tilson hopes he can keep hold of the youngster.

"It is important we keep George," said Tilson. "It is certainly something we are looking to do."

United's injury problems worsened yesterday with the news that Osei Sankofa faces six weeks on the sidelines with a knee problem.