BRANDON Goodship is back in training for Southend United.

The summer signing has missed the Shrimpers last two matches with a hip problem.

But Blues boss Kevin Bond confirmed the striker is closing in on a return.

"He’s trained this morning after a week off but it’s his first day in seven," said Bond.

"We’ll have to see how he reacts."

Goodship started the Shrimpers opening day clash but has not featured since.

And joining him on the sidelines is centre-back Rob Kiernan who picked up an ankle problem on the eve of the new campaign.

But he has now stepped up his rehabilitation work.

"Rob Kiernan is doing some straight line running," said Bond.

"It's always good to see players who have been injured back outside again."