PHIL Brown has encouraged his players to make a fast start tomorrow in a bid to exploit Oxford United’s problems at home.

Visitors Southend United arrive in the Sky Bet League Two play-off places, thanks to a run of just one defeat in 11 games.

And the former Hull City boss is keen to take advantage of their hosts’ struggles at the Kassam Stadium.

He told the Southend Echo: “We’re going to a place where they have been booed off in the last few games, which is never a nice arena to go into as a home player.

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“We need to compound that negativity by starting well and getting in front.”

While the U’s have fallen short in their efforts to bring players in this week, the Shrimpers sealed two deals yesterday.

Wolves striker Jake Cassidy, who scored four goals for Notts County earlier this season, adds an attacking option to a Blues side which has scored just twice in their last five games.

Adam Barrett also joined from Gillingham for his second spell.

The centre back has already played at the Kassam Stadium this season, helping AFC Wimbledon earn a clean sheet in a goalless draw in November.

Brown said: “Jake’s played at a higher level this season and in previous years.

“His work rate is tremendous and he can score all types of goals.

“Centre backs should chip in with goals – Adam Barrett does that and his record from set pieces is impressive.

“I’ve never been at a club where centrebacks don’t chip in goals and we haven’t got any this year yet.”

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