DEAN Bowditch is making good progress as he recovers from a groin operation.The Blues striker is way down the pecking order at Portman Road and Brighton are keeping a close eye on his progress.

By Derek Davis

Football: Dean Bowditch is making good progress as he recovers from a groin operation.

The Blues striker is way down the pecking order at Portman Road and Brighton are keeping a close eye on his progress.

Bowditch spent a successful loan spell at the Withdean Stadium last year and the Seagulls are keen to have him back.

But first he must regain full fitness and the 21-year-old has started kicking a ball and multi-directional work.

Blues boss Jim Magilton said: “Brighton have been monitoring Dean's progress.

“Dean is out of the physio room now and ready to join light training. He needs a few games first then we will see from there.”

Although Bowditch won't be ready to play in it, the Town reserves entertain Brighton's second string on Wednesday evening in the Reserves' League Champions Cup, a game held over from last season between the winners of their respective divisions.