SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell has been impressed by the returning Sam Barratt.

The winger has come off the bench in Blues' last three matches having previously been sidelined for 16 months with a cruciate ligament injury.

And Campbell is pleased to have the 24-year-old back in contention. 

"It's great to have that option,especially now we're down to the bare bones," said Campbell. 

"He should have scored (on Saturday).

"He blasted it at the keeper but just place it and it's a goal.

"But he did really well and showed some silky skills on the left hand side."

Barratt joined Blues before the start of last season but made just one substitute appearance before being sidelined with a serious injury.

The winger will continue his comeback by lining up for Blues' under 23 side in a friendly at Oxford United this afternoon.