SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown has revealed Elliot Lee could return to the club in January.

Lee’s loan spell from West Ham United was ended without him playing a game last month when he suffered a hamstring injury in his first training session with the Shrimpers.

But Brown has remained in touch with the Hammers about the 20-year-old who he hopes could be heading back to Roots Hall.

“Ever since the injury happened we’ve been keeping tabs on Elliot and he could well be coming back to us in January now,” said Brown.

“We have a very healthy relationship with West Ham though so we’re in regular touch with them and he’s making good progress.

“We’re looking to improve at the business end of the pitch, like we have been all season in truth, but it would be great if Elliot was to come back in.”