SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond says Simon Cox is still ‘miles away’ from making a return to action.

Cox, who top scored for the Shrimpers with 17 goals last term, has been unable to join in with pre-season training after injuring both of his calves.

And Bond is not sure when Cox will be back in action.

“Simon came back in with injuries in both of his calves and he hasn’t been able to start his pre-season yet so he’s miles off being with us,” said Bond.

“He hasn’t started his conditioning work.”

Cox, who was also Blues’ player of the year last season, is one of eight players currently in the treatment room.

However, midfielder Luke Hyam is close to returning.