MICHAEL Timlin insists Southend United’s squad have been lifted by news of their fans snapping up more than 2,000 tickets for Saturday’s trip to Charlton Athletic.

The Shrimpers suffered a last gasp 1-0 defeat against Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday night.

But Timlin - who skippered Blues on his return to the starting line-up - is now desperate to bounce back at the Valley this weekend.

“To have already sold 2,000 for the game this weekend is really unbelievable,” said Timlin.

“Losing like we did on Tuesday night was really hard to take but to hear that our fans will again be backing us in such big numbers has given us a lift.

“We have to make sure we’re back at it for the game and do what we can to get the fans right behind us.

“Our supporters have been brilliant all season, especially away from home, so I’m sure they will be backing us throughout the game.

“It’s one we’re fired up to do well in and we want to be able to send our fans home happy.”

The Shrimpers had won four games in succession before being seen off by the Trotters at Roots Hall.

Mark Beevers netted a cruel injury-time winner but Timlin does not want Blues’ confidence to be dented by the defeat.

“It was a bitter pill to swallow but we more than matched Bolton and should be feeling confident,” said Timlin.

“The gaffer had to make some late changes due to injuries and put together a makeshift team really, including me at left-back.

“I’m a midfielder and, although I’ve shown I can do a job at left-back, I’m only ever really filling in when I’m playing there.

“But it was great to be back out there and to also be made captain was lovely.

“Hopefully Anton (Ferdinand) will be back on Saturday because it’s an important game and we need him back.”

Blues head into the clash occupying the final play-off position in sixth.

In contrast, Charlton are currently 16th but Timlin is expecting a tricky afternoon against the Addicks.

“We need to ignore the league table when it comes to playing Charlton,” said the 32-year-old.

“Karl Robinson is a very good manager and they also have some really good players in their team.

“This is going to be a tricky game for us and we need to be bang at it if we’re going to go there and get the result we need.”