SOUTHEND United’s on-loan striker Jack Sampson is fighting to be fit for Saturday’s clash at Hereford United.

The 18-year-old’s groin injury, which he picked up during last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Accrington Stanley, is not as bad as first feared.

But he does not know if he will recover in time to take on the Bulls.

“I really couldn’t say if I’m going to be fit for the Hereford game at this stage,” said Sampson.

“The good news is that the injury isn’t as serious as I first thought it was.

“I feared I’d pulled my groin completely but that’s the not case, which is good news.

“Now it’s just a case of seeing how it responds to treatment, and hopefully I won’t be out for too long.”

However, while Sampson’s involvement at Edgar Street remains unclear, Southend centre-back Mark Phillips will definitely be fit for the game.

The influential defender clattered into a post against Accrington and originally feared he had broken his hand.

But that is not the case and the 29-year-old insists he will definitely be available this weekend.

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO