Cox back after fun in the sun

Republic of Ireland international striker Simon Cox has revealed the secret behind his rapid return to fitness — sunbathing!

Cox was set to be sidelined until next year after suffering ankle ligament damage during the 2-1 win at Wolves in November 24.

But he is poised to make his comeback against Watford today with a little help from a sunshine break in Dubai.

Cox said: “When I had the scan results and it seemed as though it was going to be a long time out for me, there was not much I could do here.

“There are only so many weights you can lift, so much ice you can put on.

“So I was allowed to go away for a week and get some sun, which was nice, because it was cold over here.

“I took a couple of machines with me. I took crutches, a special boot and a machine that electronically exercises your thighs so that they don’t diminish while you are out.

“I was doing that two or three times a day, when I had finished sunbathing! They say the sun heals people quite quickly, I hear. I’m back quicker than I expected.

“I have to manage things, I have to monitor things carefully in training.

“As long as I have no adverse reactions, I should be fine — and I have not had any so far. It is just one of those things. My feeling is that, if an injury feels okay, I will push myself.”