While the Shrimpers link up for the opening long distance runs and tactical discussions of 2004/5, the ex-U’s front man, who first arranged to train with the Seasiders at the end of last season, has been struck down by a cracked bone in his foot, which has meant that he has been frustrated in his early attempts to impress manager Steve Tilson and head coach Paul Brush.
Tilson, who revealed that the striker was in with a chance of landing a free transfer after being released by the Abbey Stadium outfit, has been unable to add him to the squad formally as yet, with the six-foot three-inch target man having only come off of crutches on Monday. The 20-year-old told the Southend Evening Echo, “I cracked a bone in my foot but because I didn’t realise I done it I carried on training”.
In desperation to get a deal in southeast Essex, Revell had continued to build up his fitness levels, but as he explained, “That obviously meant the injury didn’t heal properly and three weeks ago I had to have an operation where a screw was put in my foot.” However, the forward, who has scored six goals in 27 League starts, make encouraging remarks about the camp, “I came down for training at the end of the season and really enjoyed it. The lads made me feel welcome and I’m devastated at the timing of the injury”.
Revell is hoping to become Tilson’s second striking signing after he persuaded Wayne Gray to join from Wimbledon in June, following the loss of 25-goal top scorer Leon Constantine to Peterborough United in similar circumstances.
Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com