WILL Atkinson insists Southend United have already recovered from their painful defeat against Chesterfield and cannot wait to take on Wycombe Wanderers this weekend.

The Shrimpers were beaten 2-1 by the Spireites after conceding deep in to added on time.

But Atkinson believes Blues can take heart from the manner of their performance and is now backing them to get back on track when they take on Wycombe.

“We were all gutted after the game but we had a really good, hard training session yesterday so it’s out of our systems now and we’re all looking forward to going to Wycombe,” said Atkinson, 24.

“In an ideal world we wouldn’t have to wait until Saturday before playing again but we’re feeling positive again and, although Wycombe are a good side, we’re confident of getting a good result against them.

“We actually played very well against Chesterfield and if we can keep that up then more victories will definitely be coming our way.”

Atkinson also wants to play a part in that happening by opening his goalscoring account for the Shrimpers.

The midfield netted for Bradford City in a 3-0 win at Wycombe last February and he wants more of the same this weekend.

“I’ve come close to scoring a couple of times but it would be great to get my first goal at the weekend to help us get a good result,” said Atkinson.

“That’s certainly what I’ll be aiming for and it’s a big game for us after what happened on Saturday.”

Atkinson featured on the right flank and in the centre of the park against Chesterfield.

But he would perfectly happy to line up in either position at the weekend.

“Long term I would like to be a central midfielder but I don’t mind where I’m picked,” said Atkinson.

“I’m able to play on the right and spent most of last season on the left so I’m quite comfortable in any of those roles.

“I just want to play and I’d happily line up at centre-back or even in goal if that’s what the manager asked me to do.”