Leeds United head for Southend United on Friday knowing a seventh straight league victory will be enough to assume pole position in League One.

Since relegation from the Coca-Cola Championship in 2007, United's previous dalliances with top spot came for a few hours on Boxing Day 2007 and a couple of hours on the opening day of last season.

But with Charlton Athletic not in action until Saturday, when they take on Southampton at The Valley, Simon Grayson's men have the chance to assume the advantage.

The game also throws up another opportunity for Grayson's to etch their name into the history books. Having already recorded a best ever start to a season, the class of 2009 are now chasing a seventh successive league win, which would equal the best ever starts to a league campaign, recorded in 1973 and 2007.

But to do so, Grayson's side must win at a venue that has produced two defeats and a draw in our three previous visits and has not been the happiest of hunting grounds.

Dennis Wise was manager when United were controversially denied what could have been a match-winning penalty in 2007, pictured above, caretaker manager Gwyn Williams saw United lose at Southend the following season, and last term Gary McAllister presided over a 1-0 defeat, below.

"It's going to be difficult game," conceded the Leeds boss. "It's a small ground, there'll be a good atmosphere and it'll be a sell-out, but we're coming to terms with this.

"If we produce the performances we can, we have a good chance. We have to keep doing what's got us to where we are now.

"I don't expect us to win all 46 league games - it's a nice thought, but unlikely - but we'll be looking to win as many as we can. 

"We'll be approaching it in a positive manner and hope we get the win, if we don't, we'll take the positives and move on."

United have Jermaine Beckford available again after injury while Patrick Kisnorbo is back from international duty. Rui Marques hasn't travelled due to an Achilles injury.

Southend have Jean-Francois Christophe available again after suspension and the Shrimpers Leeds-supporting manager Steve Tilson must decide between Christophe or Damian Scannell in the midfield.

The Roots Hall club are also anticipating a season-best gate of over 10,000.

You can hear full commentary of the Southend United game live on LUTV...