Former Southend United striker Barrington Belgrave is battling to be fit for a return to south-East Essex this weekend.

Belgrave's current club, Nationwide Conference outfit Farnborough Town, are at Ryman Premier leaders Canvey Island for an FA Trophy third round game.

Belgarve, who was brought to Roots Hall by David Webb from Conference side Yeovil, missed last Saturday's home League defeat by Exeter with an ankle injury.

Also hoping to return from a similar injury is on loan Peterborough man Ryan Semple, while skipper Nick Burton is fighting to overcome a hamstring problem.

Farnborough, under the managership of chairman Vic Searle, have been enjoying improved fortunes in the Conference in recent weeks with another former Shrimper, midfielder Carl Hutchings, doing well.

Canvey, who won the competition three years ago, are one of several local clubs in Trophy action this weekend.

All play on Saturday apart from Ryman Premier Thurrock, who travel to Division One North Wealdstone, who play at Edgware Town's ground, on Friday night.

Published Thursday January 8, 2004

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