Simpson missing for U's
Cambridge will be without forward Robbie Simpson for their Boxing Day clash with Southend.
The 29-year-old serves a one-match ban after picking up two yellow cards in last Friday's 1-1 draw with Tranmere.
U's boss Richard Money will run the rule over young striker Jordan Chiedozie, who is struggling with a calf problem, while defender Ian Miller, who made his return from a six-month injury lay-off against Shrewsbury, is available to play some part after being rested on Friday.
Money will be without Tom Naylor, who is back with parent club Derby after his loan stint came to an end.
Southend manager Phil Brown will again be without Jerome Binnom-Williams.
The on-loan Crystal Palace teenager serves the second game of a three-match suspension after seeing red in the recent 4-1 defeat to Wycombe.
Defender Ben Coker returned to the starting line-up for last Friday's goalless draw with Burton after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an elbow injury. He is expected to start once more.
Myles Weston stepped off the bench in the closing stages of the stalemate with the Brewers and he is in contention to return to the starting XI.
Source: PA
