WILL Atkinson has completed his return to Southend United.

The 32-year-old, who had been back on trial with Blues during pre-season, has now signed a short-term deal to keep him at the club until the end of January.

And Atkinson is thrilled to be back at Roots Hall.

“I’m delighted to get it over the line,” said the midfielder.

"I’ve been here since the start of pre-season now.

“I picked up a little niggly calf injury, but I’m delighted to sign and I’m looking forward to it.”

Atkinson was previously with Blues between 2013 and 2017, making 173 appearances.

The successful spell included promotion via the League Two play-offs back in 2015 and the midfielder looks back on his first spell with real fondness.

“I was here for four years and enjoyed every moment that I was here,” said Atkinson.

"I know the club well, the manager and I know the assistant Craig [Fagan] too so hopefully we can have a good year together.

Atkinson will bring added competition to the Shrimpers’ midfield.

And he is keen to help Blues get back on track after two successive relegations saw them drop out of the Football League for the first time in 101 years.

"I’m looking to help in any way I can,” said Atkinson.

“Experience is just another way of saying you’re old, but I still feel fit and I am experienced too so hopefully I can use that alongside my other qualities.”

The Shrimpers started the season with a 1-0 win at King’s Lynn on Saturday.

And Atkinson wants that victory to signal the start of more a positive spell.

"I love the buzz around the place and being back with the boys,” said Atkinson.

“It was a great result on Saturday and a really positive start so hopefully we can do the business this weekend and keep the momentum going."