ALAN McCormack and John White are both back training outside for Southend United.

White has not featured since Blues’ EFL trophy defeat against West Ham United at the start of September while McCormack has been not played since making his debut at Carlisle United a month ago.

But Blues boss Mark Molesley feels the duo are edging closer to a return.

“Alan and John are both training on the grass again but we need to be so careful with going too early too soon,” said Molesley.

“We can’t afford anymore hiccups or setbacks.

“We know how important they are and we want them back as quickly as we can but we have to make sure they stay back when they do come back.”