SOUTHEND United's on loan defender Ryan Inniss is unavailable for selection after pleading guilty to a criminal offence.

It is understood the defender - who is with the Shrimpers until the end of the season - has been sent to prison.

He has been handed a 14-week prison sentence after admitting assault.

Inniss joined Blues on loan from Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day and has yet to make a first-team appearance for Southend.

A spokesman for Crystal Palace said: “Crystal Palace Football Club are aware of the Ryan Inniss court case and sentence which is subject to appeal.

"Therefore, at this time the club cannot comment further on the matter, for legal reasons."