SOUTHEND Saxons’ Ian Morrison is relishing his return to action after a frustrating spell on the sidelines.

A shoulder problem combined with the coronavirus pandemic, kept Morrison out of action for 18 months.

But he is now delighted to be back and cannot wait for Saturday’s crunch clash at Harpenden.

“It's been really enjoyable being able to be back out on the field with the boys and definitely something that I've missed,” said Morrison.

“This game like every game is really important but each week is a different challenge which we are excited about.”

Southend head into the game sitting sixth in London One North just one place and three points behind Saturday’s hosts.

And Morrison is looking forward to the clash after finally regaining full fitness.

“It was a shoulder injury and it was extremely frustrating with conflicting ideas as to how best manage the injury but now I'm just enjoying being back fit,” said Morrison.

“My fitness is improving week on week and Saturday was my fourth game back after some tough clashes against Sudbury and Shelford.

“But that first game back was definitely tough.”

And Morrison is now eager to make the most of his return.

“I just want to continue enjoying playing rugby within a great group after such a lengthy lay-off for all due to covid and injury,” he added.

Elsewhere this weekend, bottom of the table South Woodham Ferrers, who have yet to win this season, head to seventh placed Wymondham in London Two North East.

In London Three Essex, Canvey Island, who have also yet to win this season, host fifth placed Old Cooperians.

In Essex One, second placed Billericay entertain Millwall who are seventh.