MICHAEL Kightly will make his first Southend United appearance in 13 years when the Shrimpers visit Braintree Town tomorrow.

Blues face the Iron in their third pre-season friendly of the summer.

And boss Phil Brown will be among those looking forward to seeing Kightly back in a Southend shirt.

“Michael’s looking good and it will be great to see him out there tomorrow,” said Brown.

“He’s doing extra work in training and, although he’s behind the others in terms of fitness at the moment, it’s not going to be long until he’s right at the top.

“Playing in these games will definitely help him too.”

Kightly, who rejoined Blues on a three-year-deal last week, has not featured for the club since facing Swansea in 2004.