Exeter v Southend preview

Team news for Saturday's League Two clash between Exeter City and Southend at St James Park.

The Grecians are set to be boosted by the return of experienced right-back Danny Butterfield when they welcome the Shrimpers. The former Crystal Palace defender has not featured since picking up a calf strain injury in the Devon derby victory over Plymouth last month but is back in contention. "Danny Butterfield is fit for selection," manager Paul Tisdale said. "He has not had any match play but he has trained and he is through his injury. We are getting back to full strength." Another boost for Tisdale is the return of playmaker Alan Gow who missed Saturday's 2-0 loss at Peterborough through injury and he is likely to take Tommy Doherty's place in the side. The former Northern Ireland international midfielder is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season. Mark Phillips returns from suspension for Southend's trip to Exeter. The centre-back has missed the Shrimpers' last three matches but is back in the fold at St James Park, although midfielder Conor Clifford continues to serve his ban. Midfielder Marc Laird will be hoping for more minutes following his recent return while striker Freddy Eastwood is also eyeing a place in the matchday 18 having overcome his niggling knee problems. Defender Julian Bennett is now the only player in the treatment room as he continues his recovery from a long-term knee injury, while Adam Thompson is away with Northern Ireland's Under-21 squad.