SOUTHEND United left-back Ben Coker is closing in on a comeback.

The 26-year-old has been out since mid-November with an ankle injury.

But Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is hoping the defender will be fit to line up for the under 21s at Leyton Orient next Tuesday.

“It’s very likely that Ben will be playing against Orient which would be great news,” said Brown.

“He’s back out running which is good to see and I’m pushing the medical staff to have him back involved for the Sheffield United game this weekend but realistically there’s no chance of that happening.

“It’s far more likely he’ll be available against Rochdale the following week and it would do him good to get a game under his belt for the under 21s as well.”

Coker has been replaced by Michael Timlin during his absence and his return will cause another selection headache for Brown.

“I think Ben is the best left-back in the league but Michael has gone in and played like that has always been his position,” said Brown.

“It will be another tough decision but it’s good to have these kind of dilemmas when it comes to picking the team.”