Southend United striker Lawrie Dudfield was today relieved not to be facing a long lay off with his knee injury.

The goal-getting forward missed Saturday's clash with Bury because of the proble.

But Dudfield could soon return to the Shrimpers' starting line-up following an injection from a medical specialist.

"I went for an appointment yesterday and decided to have the injection there and then," said the former Hull City front-runner.

"The specialist said I could wait two or three weeks and see what happens, but I don't want to be out for that long at this stage of the season.

"We're chasing automatic promotion and a place in a cup final as well, so I obviously want to play a part in that, but it's a massive relief not to be out for any longer."

Dudfield admitted he had originally feared a prolonged period on the sidelines after experiencing a great deal of pain in his left knee following last weekend's narrow victory at Northampton Town.

He said it was the first time he had had problems with his left knee, although a previous injury to his right knee had ruled him out for six weeks.

"I was obviously worried about missing more games," added Dudfield. "People were talking about it being cartilage trouble and if that had been the case then I would have been out for a quite while."

But the forward - who has scored seven goals this season - may even return in time for Saturday's clash at Chester City.

"The specialist has told me to rest up for a couple of days and then return to training towards the end of the week," said Dudfield.

"That's the plan anyway and it would be great to play a part this weekend at Chester because I have got myself back into the team lately and it had been going well."