Southend United's injury jinxed striker Neil Tolson is recovering at home following the latest in a long line of trips to the operating theatre.

The 27-year-old recently went under the surgeon's knife for the third time in as many seasons and is now praying for an end to his problems.

"I've just come back from the specialist in Hartlepool and I'm feeling fine," said Tolson, who has made just seven appearances this term, scoring once.

"I've had a pin inserted into my stomach to prevent my pelvic bone from moving and this will hopefully clear up my injury problems once and for all."

Tolson missed a lot of last season following groin surgery and he was sidelined for long spells at his former club York City with hernia problems.

And the front-runner, who netted ten goals last year despite only being half fit, revealed that he stayed awake during the entire duration of his operation.

"I only had a local anaesthetic and I knew what was going on," added Tolson, who will need crutches to move around for the next seven weeks.

"I was wide awake and listening to music throughout the operation. It was better than being put to sleep."

Finally, Tolson said he had to go back for a check-up in January before resuming training.

"The doctors want to see me after Christmas to find out what progress I'm making," he said. "Then I can look at resuming training and getting back in the first team."

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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