JACK Bridge is starting to be reminded of Southend United’s last promotion.

Bridge was a young professional looking to force his way into the first team when the Shrimpers went up via the League Two play-offs back in 2015.

But the left-wing back is now playing a prominent part for Blues and is starting to get flashbacks from seven years ago.

“When I first came onto the scene, there was the promotion from League Two and there are definitely similarities with then to what we’re doing now,” said Bridge.

“There’s such a good spirit here and since I’ve come back this is by far the best it’s been.”

Bridge left the Shrimpers in 2018 before returning three years later and the 27-year-old has shone brightly in recent weeks.

His fine form has helped extend Blues’ unbeaten run to nine games in the National League.

And it also means he will be heading into Tuesday’s clash with table-topping Notts County on a real high.

“We shouldn’t be feeling anything other than positivity going into the game,” said Bridge.

“The last month or so to get the results we’ve got with the teams we’ve played and the journeys as well shows we shouldn’t be scared by anything on Tuesday night or anyone we’re playing really.”

Blues worked way their way up to sixth in the standings with a 3-0 win at Barnet last time out.

And it was another enjoyable evening for Bridge and his team-mates.

“It’s so positive for us at the moment as a team,” said the former Eastwood School pupil.

“Tuesday at Barnet was another great night with the fans packing out the stand.

“There were more of our fans than home fans and it was just great.”

Bridge also completed the scoring for the Shrimpers with a smartly taken penalty.

And he is perfectly happy to keep on taking spot-kicks if required.

“I’ve taken a fair few in the past,” said Bridge.

“I was on penalties when I was in Carlisle and I’ve taken a few in shoot-outs as well.

“When we got the penalty on Tuesday I don’t think anyone on the pitch had taken one this season so when I won it I just ran over and took the ball to have it.

“With penalties you could add five to maybe even 10 goals to your tally hopefully and I’d be happy to get that if I stay on them.”

Blues’ next chance to pose problems comes on Tuesday against Notts County.

But Bridge does not mind heading into the clash having had no game this weekend.

“After the run of away games we’ve had I do think that can take its toll as a group,” said Bridge.

“Maybe the little break at the weekend comes at a good time but we’re more than ready to go and we’d be happy if it was Saturday or Tuesday.”

Bridge is also ready to play a part and cannot wait for kick-off after bouncing back from losing his place in the starting line-up earlier this season.

“The start of the season was a little bit frustrating for me and I had to bide my time a bit,” said Bridge.

“I had to wait for my opportunity and then made sure I took it when it came.

“I’m loving the position I’m playing at the moment and loving the way we’re playing too.”

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