Central defender Tommy Smith says he is staying positive as he begins his recovery from his broken ankle. The 18-year-old recently underwent surgery after suffering the injury in training.

Smith told the club site: "The operation went well and now I've got a cast on which will stay on for another five weeks.

"After that I will have the screw taken out that is pinning the bones together and will wear a protective boot. That stage is my first target because I can start some mobility work then.

"I've been told the ankle will be really stiff so I will be looking to do some swimming work, hopefully exercises that work the ankle but don't put any strain on the joint.

"The physio team here are first class and I know they will set out my recovery timetable, but they have reiterated to me that I must not push things too early. They will guide me along the way but they have said that I will be back as fit and strong as before the injury.

"I know I've got time on my side so it's a case of staying positive."

Smith, who made his senior debut on the opening day of the season, is due to be back in action in March next year.

Elsewhere, on-loan defender Dan Harding has failed in his bid to have the red card he received for a two-footed tackle while playing for Southend at the weekend overturned. Harding, who is with the Shrimpers until January, now faces a three-match ban.

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