BEN Coker could be set for a shock return ahead of schedule when Southend United host Burton Albion at Roots Hall tomorrow night.

Coker has been out with an elbow injury since early September.

But, with Jerome Binnom-Williams now out suspended, Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is considering putting Coker back in to the starting line-up against the Brewers.

“Ben is definitely in my thoughts for the game with Burton tomorrow night,” said Brown.

“We’re working him hard in training and if he comes through that then there’s every chance of him playing.

“If Jerome was available then I would probably wrap Cokes up in cotton wool for another week.

“But sometimes circumstances force your hand in football and that’s what could have happened here.

“I’m still thinking it over and have other options available, most notably John White for the left-back role, but there’s every chance Ben could play.”

However Coker, who suffered the injury against Oxford United, has not played in any development games since being forced to the sidelines.

And Brown believes it would be a slight gamble to select him against the Brewers.

“It might be a bit of a risk, but Ben’s a fit lad and he’s been chomping at the bit for a while now,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“He has been training for a few weeks and he’s a great, bubbly character to have around the team.

“Having him back will give everyone a boost and will definitely be like bringing in a new signing.”

Blues will be without the on loan Binnom-Williams for the next three games after he was sent off in Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at Wycombe Wanderers.

Adam Thompson is available again after missing that game with a one match ban.

But Coker has also been showing his competitive streak in training, according to Brown.

“When Ben first came back he was a protected species so the lads all knew they couldn’t tackle him or be physical towards him,” said Brown.

“We had to make sure his elbow was protected but Ben certainly made the most of the situation by giving a few of them a kick.

“Since then, he’s returned to full contact training and a few of the lads have been getting their own back.

“Seeing that makes me think he might be ready for the game tomorrow but I haven’t made my mind at this stage.”