SOUTHEND Saxons’ director of rugby Chris Green believes his side are currently enjoying their best pre-season for several years.

The Saxons have teamed up with Formidable Fitness, who are situated just around the corner from their Warners Bridge base.

And, having also made a number of new additions during the summer, Green feels Southend are in great shape as they continue to prepare for the forthcoming National Two South season.

“It’s the best pre-season we’ve had in many years,” said Green.

“That obviously doesn’t guarantee good results once the games get underway but it’s a great way to start and we’ve made a number of improvements.

“Our backroom staff has been strengthened.

“We have a new backs coach Nick Greenhall, who will be balancing his work to come in part-time, while Mark Williams is doing a lot of coaching too.

“Daniel Legge is continuing in the role he did before and we’ve got Luke Brewster in as first team manager so we’re a lot stronger off the field and we’re very optimistic.

“We’ve got 10 new players, there’s a lot more competition for places and teaming up with Formidable Fitness has been massive for us too.

“It’s an outstanding facility and we’re happy to have partnered up with them.”

Southend’s players are currently training at the gym twice a week.

And Formidable Fitness owner Anthony Hill is thrilled to have them on board.

“We’ve got all the unique functional stuff they need so it’s been good to have them here training,” said Hill. “We opened in January and have around 400 members and 20 personal trainers.

“We’re looking at expanding and we’re still growing so it’s all good.

“We do like to work with clubs and it’s our ethos really.

“We’re not just a gym where people come and sit on machines, we’re a goal-driven facility and that’s how we work.

“We’re pleased to have the rugby club on board and hope it can have them have a successful season.”