SOUTHEND United skipper Nathan Ralph says his fight for a first team recall is a positive sign for the Shrimpers.
Ralph was forced onto the sidelines for 10 games after suffering a fractured little toe.
But, due to Blues’ fine form in his absence, Ralph knows it will be tough to get back into the team despite him having now regained full fitness.
“There’s healthy competition but that’s only going to drive the standard of training and performances in games so long may it continue,” said Ralph.
“For me it’s a really good sign and is very positive.
“I’ve been really pleased to watch and I’m at the stage of my career now.
“It’s been really good and you feel a sense of pride watching the boys.”
However, Ralph is relieved to be back in action after being out of action for almost two months.
“It’s been a very frustrating injury for me and one that doesn’t sound that much but it was in an awkward place,” said Ralph, 29.
“You can’t really get away from putting weight on it and I pretty much just had to let it settle.
“I couldn’t wear trainers for the first week and because it was my little toe it was always touching the side of my trainer.
“Going on my toes to run was really difficult too.
“I was out a lot longer than I expected but it is what it is and it’s nice to get back.”
Ralph came off the bench for the final 13 minutes of Blues’ clash at Gateshead on Saturday.
But he was unable to stop the Shrimpers suffering a 3-1 defeat as their 11 match unbeaten run came to an end.
“We hit the bar a couple of times but in fairness to them I thought they were decent on the day and they were difficult to play against,” said Ralph.
“We were disappointed with the result but the boys had done really well in the last 11 games so hopefully it’s just a blip and we go again.
“That day was always going to come at some stage but it needs to be one we go and react to on Saturday now.”
The fifth placed Shrimpers head to Aldershot, who are 18th, this weekend.
And Ralph is certain Blues will be fired up.
“I think they (Aldershot) will be a handful and have quite a few big players, especially up top,” said Ralph.
“After last week we’ll definitely be on it and up for the challenge.”
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