SOUTHEND United left-back Ben Coker has been given the go-ahead to return from a broken leg.

Coker has yet to feature this season but will now be in contention for Saturday’s clash with Bradford City after getting the green light from his surgeon.

“Ben has been given clearance to return and he will be in full contact training for the rest of the week which is just absolutely fantastic news,” said Brown.

“He’s got the green light from the surgeon and he will be in contention for Saturday now, which is testament to all the hard work he’s done.”

However, winger Stephen McLaughlin is doubtful for this weekend’s match at Roots Hall after he suffered a bruised pelvis during Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Bristol Rovers.