Brentford v Southend preview

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Marcello Trotta is available for Brentford’s cup replay.

The Italian striker has extended his loan deal from Fulham, which was due to expire after Saturday’s 2-0 win over Oldham, until the end of the season.

Manager Uwe Rosler made a few changes for the first meeting between the sides, a 2-2 draw in Essex last weekend, but is likely to field his strongest team with the prospect of a visit from holders Chelsea in round four for the winners.

Toumani Diagouraga may have earned a place in the starting line-up after impressing as a substitute against Oldham.

Fellow midfielder Kevin O’Connor (ankle) and striker Farid El Alagui (knee) remain on the sidelines with long-term injuries.

Marc Laird faces a late fitness test ahead of Southend’s midweek cup tie.

The midfielder was forced off after just 29 minutes of Saturday’s disappointing 3-0 defeat at Exeter having pulled a hamstring.

Manager Paul Sturrock will assess another couple of unnamed players nursing bumps and bruises following the encounter.

Striker Britt Assombalonga, who has 12 goals to his name this season, continues to struggle with his ankle and shin problems.

Veteran frontman Neil Harris made his long-awaited return from a knee injury as a late substitute at the weekend and can again expect to find himself on the bench.

Southend and Brentford drew 2-2 in their initial meeting and the winners of the replay will be rewarded with a fourth-round tie at home to European champions and FA Cup holders Chelsea.