Southend United defender Julian Bennett has revealed that he is hopeful of playing a part for the League Two side in the latter stages of the season.

The 29-year-old has made just one appearance this season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament last August, but has stepped up his recovery in recent weeks.

"It would be great to play some part in the season, whether that is the last few games or the playoffs if that's where we end up, but it's all about how things go over the next few weeks," Bennett told the club's official website.

"When you are in the gym every day and spending time on the treatment table it does get to you, but it also makes you stronger as a person. But once you get back out running you immediately feel more involved because you're out on the grass while the rest of the lads are training.

"Obviously you're not involved in that yet, but you know you're getting close to the goal of being fit and available for selection again, which gives you hope."

Southend currently sit seventh in League Two.