Braintree Town manager Danny Cowley said it is possible that Charlie Strutton may be fit enough to start the Vanarama National League season for the Iron.

The 26-year-old striker is working hard on his fitness after a corrective operation to heal an ankle problem left over from when he broke his leg two years ago and it will be tough for him to be ready for the first game at Chester on August 8.

However, Cowley paid tribute to the hard work of his striker and said he may be rewarded by being fit for the season’s opener.

“Charlie is really making good progress and we’re very pleased with him,” Cowley told the Times.

“It was a very serious injury that he had, but he is now running, doing light ball work, ladders and twisting and turning work.

“I have to say, his work ethic has been exceptional."

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