Returning duo Shaun Derry and Gylfi Einarsson have embarked on a belated pre-season training programme.

The duo were undergoing treatment when their team-mates reported back at the start of July, and they are now facing the prospect of undertaking the same demanding pre-season programme laid down by boss Dennis Wise.

Shaun is in the final throes of recovering from a heel injury while Gylfi is back after a calf problem.

Assistant boss Gus Poyet confirmed: "They are both starting the pre-season programme now. They've been back a couple of days and they're facing some hard work now."

Gus also reported more good news on the injury front with Rui Marques set to return to training ahead of the weekend clash with Southend United.

Rui suffered an injury at Tranmere last weekend and missed out on the midweek trip to Macclesfield.