Southend United's reserve side has managed to gain re-entry to the Totesport.com Combination League.

Former manager Steve Tilson decided to opt out of joining the league next season.

However, following the appointment of Paul Sturrock enquiries were made as to whether it was possible to be reinstated.

And thanks to Wycombe Wanderers agreement to move to the Central Division the Combination has agreed to place Southend in the Eastern section of the competition.

That means they will now face Colchester United, Ipswich Town, Luton Town, Oxford United, Peterborough United, Stevenage Borough and Watford.

Speaking at Monday's press conference Paul Sturrock said: "I would like to have a reserve team for next season and we have already spoken about trying to get back into the league.

"Hopefully it's not too late because I feel players need to be playing at least once a week and it's also good for youth players to make the step up."

Fixtures for the new season will be confirmed shortly.