SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond will up the work-load for his players against Exeter City tomorrow.

Blues face the Grecians in a behind closed doors friendly on Wednesday morning.

And the game will some of the Shrimpers squad playing 90 minutes for the first time this summer.

“This will be the first game we have a few outfield players playing for the full 90 minutes,” said Bond, who confirmed summer signing Nathan Ralph would figure at some stage in the game.

“We’ve slowly stepped things up and they’re ready now to push things on.”

The Shrimpers head into the game on the back of a five-day training camp in the south-west.

And Bond feels the trip has been hugely beneficial.

“It’s been very good and we’ve been able to get a lot done here,” said the former Bournemouth boss.

“We’ve done double sessions most days and the players have been working hard.

“The facilities and everything here have been good and I’m pleased with the way it’s gone.”

Blues will return home after Wednesday morning’s clash with the Grecians before continuing their pre-season schedule with a trip to Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday.

The Shrimpers then host Millwall at Roots Hall next Wednesday before heading to League One rivals Gillingham just two days later to complete their warm-up matches.