Phillips back in Brewers frame
Burton winger Jimmy Phillips could be in line to make his comeback against Southend.
Phillips is nearing the end of a five month lay-off with a broken metatarsal and could have some involvement.
Manager Gary Rowett says the 23-year-old will return to the field stronger than he was last season.
"Being out for five months, he's had plenty of time to work in the gym and he's changed shape a bit," he told the Derby Telegraph. "He's a bit bulkier, which will help him."
Goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson looks on course to be available again in the new year after a ruptured knee ligament injury.
But the experienced stopper faces a new battle in winning the jersey back from Dean Lyness who is expected to continue between the posts.
Britt Assombalonga faces a battle to be fit for Southend.
The 12-goal striker, on loan from Watford until the end of the season, sustained a nasty ankle injury which forced him off towards the end of the impressive 3-0 win at Dagenham on Boxing Day.
Assombalonga will now receive treatment and be given every chance of being fit for the Pirelli Stadium clash.
Skipper Chris Barker recovered from an ankle knock of his own to start against Dagenham, meaning manager Paul Sturrock was able to again name an unchanged starting XI.
However, Sturrock has not ruled out rotating his squad as they prepare for a further two games in four days, with the fourth-placed Shrimpers - unbeaten in 14 matches - at home to leaders Gillingham on New Year's Day.
Source: PA
