DAVID Jackson is back for Southend’s clash with his former Chinnor side at Warners Bridge tomorrow.

The influential back row has been out since late February with a calf injury.

And he cannot wait to return to action this weekend.

“I tore my calf against Bishops Stortford a couple of weeks ago and aggravated it again in training so it’s been frustrating but it’s great to be back now,” said Jackson.

“I also feel refreshed from the break and am ready to get stuck in on Saturday.”

Southend head in to the game sitting ninth in the National Two South standings.

The Seasiders have triumphed in their last two outings and will be confident of making it three in a row against a Clifton side who have lost five of their last six games.

The Bristol club are 12th in the table, just five points above the relegation zone.

But Jackson feels that will make them difficult opponents.

“Chinnor are having a bit of a fight at the moment to keep out of that relegation zone but they are a quality team and have beaten some good teams this season so we know they will be a tough challenge,” said Jackson.

“I am good friends with a couple of the players at Chinnor from my time there in 2008 so I know they have a lot of character and will be determined to finish their season strongly.”

Southend will be looking to do the same and could still finish the season in the top five.

The Seasiders are currently just nine points behind with six games to go.

And Jackson is keen to close that gap.

“The target is drive towards a strong finish so we can finish in a position that reflects our efforts this season,” said Jackson.

“We want to win as many of our last games as possible, particularly in front of our home supporters to set a strong platform as a team to build on next season.”

Jackson could well still with the Seasiders next season but, only after he enjoys a break from the game.

“I’ve had two seasons back to back which is more than 50 games of rugby so I will need a rest but my partner Lavilla and I are fairly settled here with jobs and are in the process of getting a place near the beach in Southend for summer,” he said.

“The club has also communicated their vision for next season and want me involved in that which is great but the key objective now is to finish this season in as strong a manner as possible.”

Southend also have Daniel Legge available again tomorrow after the back row missed the 25-17 against London Irish Wild Geese.