Julian Hails is set take another step on the comeback trail for Southend United today in a practice match at First Division Ipswich Town.
The right-back, the Third Division club's current Player of the Season, has been sidelined for five months with a knee injury.
However, the 31-year-old took part in his first competitive match during Southend's 6-2 Essex Thames-side Trophy win over Maldon Town last week, playing 45 minutes.
Southend will be sending a strong squad to Portman Road which will include forwards Alex Burns and Neil Campbell, who featured in Blues' 0-0 Roots Hall draw with Exeter City last weekend.
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