SOUTHEND United goalkeeper Mark Oxley could be back in contention for Saturday’s clash with Bolton Wanderers.

The Shrimpers shot-stopper has been out since late December with an elbow injury.

But Blues boss Phil Brown is refusing to rule the custodian out of this weekend’s clash with the high-flying Trotters at Roots Hall.

“Mark still has two or three days to be ready for the weekend and it’s not a game he’s definitely out of at this stage,” said Brown.

“He’s upped his rehab work but we have to be sensible about it.

“An elbow injury for a goalkeeper is the same as a knee injury for an outfield player so we have to make sure everything is OK before pushing him through.”

"It's probably more likely he'll be in the squad for the Fleetwood game."

However, Oxley could struggle to regain his place in the starting line-up.

Ted Smith, who celebrated his 21st birthday yesterday, has impressed during his five match run between the sticks.

And the former King John School pupil has caught the eye of Brown.

"I think Ted has been different class," said Brown.

"He made a match-winning save right at the end of Saturday's game and has been been playing very well."