Southend United defender Efe Sodje is well on the road to recovery.

The Nigerian centre back has been sidelined since the start of April after fracturing his fibula in the 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.

But, having had his cast removed, the 33-year-old has stepped up his rehabilitation work.

And he is determined to be fit for the start of next season when the Shrimpers enter the Championship.

"I had the cast taken off a fortnight ago and although it's obviously still a little sore I'm working hard with our physio John Stannard to make sure it improves," said Sodje.

"We aren't rushing things but I'm being pushed and the aim is to be able run again before I go back to Nigeria on June 24 for my sister's wedding."

Before then though Sodje will continue to work tirelessly in the club's treatment room where he has been participating in some unusual exercises to help increase the movement in his leg.

"I have been doing a lot of different things," he said.

"I have been working on a mini trampoline where I have to volley the ball to whoever is throwing it to me and that is helping with my balance.

"I've also been walking up the stairs both forwards and backwards which is sorting things out and Vanessa, our masseur, has also been working hard on my leg getting deep into the muscle to try and loosen things up."

All that has kept Sodje's recovering right on track and he should now be ready to join in pre-season training when his team-mates report back in at the start of July.

"I will be ready by then and will be able to jog but at the same time I have to be sensible and not do too much too soon," he said.

"I'm sure that will happen but I'm confident I will be ready for the start of the season and I can't wait to be playing in the Championship again."