SOUTHEND United left-back Ben Coker has undergone surgery to cure another groin problem.

Coker had an operation on his left groin back in January.

And the defender has now had a similar procedure done on the opposite leg.

“It’s only a minor operation but it’s good to get it done now to ensure I’m fully fit for the start of pre-season training,” said Coker.

“About a month after my first groin opposition I started to experience pain in the other leg.

“It certainly hindered me during the end of last season which was really frustrating for me.

“But after playing so many matches in the past couple of years I think something had to give.”

Despite his injury troubles, Coker still managed to make 45 starts last season with only goalkeeper Daniel Bentley making more appearances.

And Coker is keen to keep himself fit for next season.

“Now I’ve had this operation that should be everything sorted and I’m looking forward to being pain free again,” said the 25-year-old.

“It’s important to rest up and relax at this time of year but we’re still working on things ahead of the start of pre-season training at the beginning of July which is always an important period.”

Coker will be keen to improve his fitness at that stage alongside his team-mates.

And he is backing Blues to bounce back from their disappointing end to the previous campaign which saw them lose their final five games.

“I think we need to regroup and go again next season,” said Coker.

“Hopefully we can get a few new signings in and we get together as a group and have a good season which I’m sure we’re capable of doing.”