SOUTHEND United defenders Harry Lennon and Jason Demetriou are closing in on a return.

Lennon, who has been out since October with a broken leg, has resumed running.

And Demetriou, who underwent surgery on a knee problem sustained in November, is also close to a comeback, much to the delight of Blues boss Chris Powell.

"Harry Lennon was back out running yesterday," said Powell.

"He’s not at full pelt but he's probably at 50 or 60 per cent.

"Jason Demetriou isn’t back outside yet but he will be by the end of the week which is great.

"I’m hopeful of getting two players back in the fold by the end of the month and they will be like new signings, especially Harry.

"The fans haven’t seen what he’s capable of yet."