JOHN White is not yet ready to return for Southend United

The defender has missed Blues' last two matches after suffering a groin injury against Doncaster Rovers.

And Shrimpers boss Chris Powell will not be able to call on the centre-back against Barnsley this weekend.

“John White isn’t ready to return just yet," said Powell.

"But he’s doing some light training."

And Powell also revealed right-back Jason Demetriou and goalkeeper Mark Oxley are also closing in on a return.

Demetriou has been out of action since November with a broken leg while Oxley has been missing since December with a back problem.

But both of them are now stepping up their workload. 

“Jason Demetriou and Mark Oxley are doing some light training too," confirmed Powell. 

“We’re hoping Jason will be able to join in training on Saturday or on Monday.”