SOUTHEND United's Ryan Cresswell will return to Bury this weekend looking to make it to the third round of the FA Cup for the first time ever.

Cresswell, who made 59 appearances in two seasons with the Shakers, has yet to make it past the second stage of the competition in six previous attempts during his career.

But he hopes to be able to put that right at Gigg Lane tomorrow.

“It's a big game for me this weekend as I'm going back to a former club and it's a chance for me to make the third round for the first time,” said Cresswell, 24.

“I had a great time at Bury and it was a huge learning curve for me.

“It was the first move of my career and they gave me my chance in league football which I will always be thankful for.

“The manager at the time, Alan Knill, was fantastic and remains one of the best I've ever worked with so it was a good time for me.

“I consider it to be when I grew up in to a man and it will be great to go back for the first time since leaving.

“It's an important match too and hopefully we can win it but I do wish Bury all the best for the rest of the season because it's a great club.”

Blues go in to the game without a defeat in their last seven outings and Cresswell is keen to continue the good form, despite the change of competition.

“We want to carry on the momentum we've gained and it would be nice to have a good cup run to go alongside the league,” said Cresswell.

“That's certainly the aim and hopefully it can be achieved.”

And Cresswell will also be looking to continue his own fine form at both ends of the pitch.

The centre-back has hit the back of the net six times already this season and is keen to remain ahead of his new flat-mate Barry Corr, who has bagged three, in the scoring charts.

“Barry had a pop at me in Echo last week but, while I'm not one to brag, I'll start to listen when he's scored double the amount of goals I have, “ laughed the defender.