Southend United striker Drewe Broughton is fighting to be fit for this Saturday's League Two opener with Cheltenham Town.

Fitness fight - for Drewe Broughton

The former Kidderminster Harriers hit-man aggravated a foot injury during the recent 1-1 draw at Billericay Town but is confident of recovering in time to face the Robins.

"It's coming along quite nicely at the moment," said the 25-year-old who missed the Seasiders last two pre-season games.

"To start with I was strapping it up and playing the friendlies. But, although I felt pain free, I kept on breaking down so I had to have seven days' rest.

"I should be training again by the middle of this week though. I'll be working really hard in the gym and I should be fine for Saturday."

Broughton originally picked up the problem twisting during training but revealed he was not prepared to take any further risks at this stage of the season.

"My ligaments weren't strong enough but I wanted to get it sorted out now," said the forward.

"I've got to be disciplined and get the injury sorted so I can go into the league matches fully fit."

Published Tuesday August 3, 2004

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