Duncan and Cox get Wales call: pride for us, decisions for Dyer

It is good to see two of our players getting this recognition. Joe Duncan and Dan Cox are in the Wales under-21 squad, and both have given us reasons to enjoy their start at Southend.

Matty Jones has named the pair in his 23-player group for the final two UEFA U21 EURO 2027 qualifiers against Belgium and Austria. For us, there is pride in the call-ups and a practical question alongside it: who fills the gaps while they are away?

The Wales dates

Wales travel to Westerlo to face Belgium on Tuesday 29 September, with a 7pm BST kick-off. They then host Austria at The Oval in Caernarfon on Tuesday 6 October at 5.30pm BST. It will be the first Wales under-21 international held at that ground.

Two players making their mark

Duncan has become Dyer’s first-choice goalkeeper during his loan from Bristol City. His penalty save at Solihull is an obvious moment to pick out, but there has been important work beyond that one stop. We have needed him more than once when games have become difficult.

Cox arrived from Derby County’s under-21 setup and has given us another young option in defence. He returned to the starting side for the 3–1 win over Tamworth. This call-up is another opportunity for him to gain experience.

Southend are third after eight league games, with 17 points. There is plenty still to improve, but seeing players earn international opportunities while contributing here is something we can feel pleased about.

Which Southend games could be affected?

The Belgium match falls the day before our trip to Eastleigh on Wednesday 30 September. AFC Fylde then visit Roots Hall on Saturday 3 October, between the two internationals. If Duncan and Cox stay with Wales for the full period, Dyer will need to plan without them for those games.

Barrow visit on 26 September. Whether that fixture is affected depends on the players’ release and reporting arrangements; the call-up alone does not confirm an absence for that match.