SOUTHEND United striker Simon Cox insists scoring goals is the perfect way to quicken his recovery from illness.

Cox bagged a brace in Blues’ 6-2 win at Crawley Town on Tuesday night despite being under the weather.

And the forward is now keen to further boost his spirits with more goals against AFC Wimbledon this weekend.

“Scoring goals is a way to feel better and if I keep scoring when I’m ill then I may have to try and stay ill for longer,” said a croaky sounding Cox.

“I woke up early on Monday morning and considered texting Ben (Clarkson) to ask if I should come in because I was wary of someone else maybe catching what I had.

“But in the end I decided to go in and battle through it and it was the same with the game too.

“I’m pleased to have played and to have scored a couple of goals to help us win but, being honest, I do feel worse again now.

“Hopefully I’ll feel better again by the time Saturday comes around and I can get another couple to help us get the three points.”

Cox has now scored eight goals this season and will be confident of again hitting the back of the net against AFC Wimbledon this weekend.

The 31-year-old has scored three goals in four games against the Dons since signing for Blues.

And he is determined to keep that good record going.

“When I’ve played Wimbledon in the past, things seem to have fallen for me so hopefully that will happen again on Saturday,” said the striker.

“I’m pleased to have got eight goals for the season but being ultra critical I feel like I should actually have a couple more.

“But I’m just making sure I keep on getting in the box and in the right areas to get the goals.”

But Blues must also make sure they prepare for the game properly after being taken to extra-time by Crawley in their first round FA Cup replay.

“I’m sure training will be light for the rest of the week and we’ll be fine for Saturday,” said Cox.

“We started extra-time well so we weren’t full out for 120 minutes and we know what we have to do.

“For me that’s hydration and medication!”