BLUES’ Jason Demetriou is going green during an enforced absence from football.

Southend United have not played since beating Bristol Rovers at the start of March and have their season suspended until at least the end of April due to the coronavirus pandemic.

And Demetriou has opted to get to grips with his garden during his spell away from the game.

“I’m starting to think I’m going to be the next Alan Titchmarsh the way it’s going,” laughed Demetriou.

“My wife is teaching the kids and dealing with that side of things and I’m pretty much in the garden to keep myself sane really.

“I think it’s the same for everyone at the minute really and we just have to do what we can.”

For Demetriou that obviously also includes keeping fit.

And the 32-year-old is making the most of his daily allowance of exercise.

“We all have programmes we have to follow from the fitness guys and I’m going out every day running as we can still do that at the moment,” said the right-back, who has also played in midfield this season.

“There’s not too much else we can really do at the moment because not many of us will have gym equipment at home.

“It’s starting to feel like it’s the summer really and that the season has ended.

“But we have to stay in the best shape possible as none of us know what is going to happen.”

Blues’ players have been told to stay away from the training ground and no return date has been scheduled.

“We did have one return date but that’s obviously had to be put back now,” said Demetriou.

“We’re all waiting to hear what’s going to happen, just like everyone else.

“But until then we’re doing all we can and my garden is going to be looking great!”