Charlton’s Joe Aribo will miss Southend United’s visit this Saturday after suffering another ‘set-back’ in his return to fitness.

With Lyle Taylor and Patrick Bauer missing through suspension the news that Aribo is ruled out will be a blow to Lee Bowyer.

“Joe (Aribo) had a bit of set-back last week, he had an injection last Friday and his knee reacted badly,” said Bowyer.

“We were hoping he’d be back in the squad this week but that’s not the case but hopefully he’ll be ready for next weekend. He’s been a big miss for us.”

READ: Bowyer on the free agent 'option'

Asked if Krystian Beilik will revert to centre-back in the absence of Bauer who serves a one-match ban for his sending off in the 1-0 defeat at Fleetwood, Bowyer quipped;

“Yeah, he’s the only one, so it wasn’t difficult!

“That’s the luxury we have with Krystian, why we brought him in in the summer.

“He can play centre-half or move him in the middle, he can do both roles.

“The fact he’s been playing midfield means he’s fit and strong and ready to go Saturday.”

“Pat’ll be missed because the back-four have done well recently, but we have Krystian so we’ll be fine I’m sure.”

READ: Free Agent's that can answer Bowyer's call

Taylor will sit out the last of his three-match suspension and Bowyer was under no illusions how much they’ve missed their star player, picking up one point from two games.

“His red card seems so long ago now.

“It’s been tough. He’s our top scorer but he brings more than that.

“We go Saturday and he’ll be back in the side and we’ll be a lot stronger.”