EAST Thurrock United boss John Coventry could hand a debut to striker Tom Richardson in tonight’s Essex Senior Cup clash at Great Wakering Rovers.

Richardson joined from Isthmian Premier League side Brightlingsea Regent yesterday, having scored 34 goals in his 59 R’s appearances.

And, with top scorer Sam Higgins set to start the match on the substitutes bench, Richardson may be handed his first start at Burroughs Park.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I’ve decided to leave Brightlingsea in pursuit of a new challenge that I felt I couldn’t turn down,” said the striker.

It is the first time Rocks have played in the competition since losing 1-0 against Chelmsford City in last season’s final.

Coventry will play several players in need of minutes, including attacker Lewis Smith who returns having completed a one-match suspension.

Rocks will be without the likes of Ben Marlow, Reece Harris and Sammy Knott, but Coventry says he expects his side to put in a good showing.

“Not being disrespectful to Great Wakering, but any team I put out should be strong enough to do well as all my players can play in the National League South,” he said.

“All I will say is it won’t be the team I would pick for a league game.

“I always enjoy going to Wakering. They are a lovely club and it will be difficult as they are doing well in their division and have some young players who want to showcase their abilities.

“The Essex Senior Cup is a great competition but clubs like us have to prioritise the league. If you get through the rounds you tend to take it more seriously. But the match against Hemel Hempstead on Saturday is the priority.”