Maylett Set For Return In Friday's Crunch Match

Brad Maylett is set to put an injury-crocked four months behind him and make his first appearance in four months in Friday night's massive League Two clash. Swansea prepare for the visit of fourth-placed Southend, knowing

Maylett set for return

that a victory would extend the gap between themselves and the playoffs to nine points plus a game in hand.

Swansea were beaten 4-2 at Roots Hall earlier in the season, with Freddy Eastwood opening the scoring after just eight seconds of his debut. Eastwood went onto secure his hat-trick in that match and has since attracted the attention of a number of higher league club with his quick feet and eye for goal. The on-form Southend forward claims told local media that his side will be going all out for a victory in South Wales, meaning a potentially exciting encounter for the 10,000 fans expected to attend.

Victory for the Swans on Friday night would give them a massive boost as they prepare for six games in the next 22 days. Their record against the top seven sides in the league is extremely poor, with just one victory and six defeats so far - and with Swansea set to play a number of these promotion hopefuls again over the next 6 weeks, Friday's visit of Southend could be incredibly significant.

Swansea Manager Kenny Jackett has confirmed that club captain Roberto Martinez will only return to the bench, as he is in favour of his current midfield partnership of Andy Gurney and Leon Britton. Maylett is set to become the only change from last Saturday's 3-0 win over Chester - in a straight swap for the injured Adrian Forbes. Southend will be without keeper Bart Griemink and defender Andy Edwards, whilst midfielder Mark Gower is set to return after a brief spell on the sidelines.