Southend United manager Kevin Maher will remain cautious with Noor Husin as the midfielder resumes playing.
Husin came off the bench just past the hour mark in Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Hartlepool United for his first appearance since having surgery on his shins in the summer.
And Maher revealed Husin’s comeback has only been possible due to the midfielder’s natural fitness.
“Because he’s so fit he’s probably ahead of schedule,” said Maher.
“He’s not had a pre-season and that’s the hardest bit.
“The plan was to always have him involved for 25 to 30 minutes here but we’ve got to keep building him up and we’ve got to be so careful.
“We can’t over exert him but we’re delighted to have him around the place and on the pitch because he’s a massive player for us.”