Steve Tilson admits that "anything can happen" in local derbies and with two coming up in the space of three days, there will be plenty of bragging rights at stake.

Southend United entertain Colchester United on Boxing Day before travelling to face Leyton Orient on Monday and Tilson believes form goes out of the window in these types of encounters.

But while Tilson is expecting two closely fought games, he also expects there to be plenty of entertainment for the fans to enjoy.

"We have had some fantastic games with Colchester in recent years," Steve told Blues Player.

"They are always hectic and physical games, but I'm sure it will also be entertaining.

"Colchester are a good side and they are going well.

"The last time we played Colchester at Roots Hall it ended 3-3 and was a fantastic game to watch.

"It will be a tough game for both sides and anything can happen in local derbies.

"It is also a massive game for the fans. Whatever the derby is, I'm sure that the supporters will want bragging rights.

"For us, it is important to get a result to take us into the away fixture at Leyton Orient two days later.

"It is another local derby and it doesn't matter where you are in the league in these types of games.

"It will be a totally different game and atmosphere and we will be going there looking for the win.

"Everyone is fit and healthy and touch wood, we get no injuries.

"The lads will go out there and give all they can and hopefully, we can get a good result in both games."

Tilson also confirmed that striker Jabo Ibehre has returned to MK Dons after his one-month loan spell at the club.

He said: "In regards to Jabo, he has gone back to MK Dons.

"Because he was going to be suspended for three games, he would only be able to play for us once in a month, so there was no point extending the loan from that point of view."