KEVIN Maher’s passion for Southend United is helping him power through an incredibly problematic period for the Shrimpers.

Blues have won four National League games in succession despite still waiting for their January pay packets.

And Maher - who spent 10 years playing for Southend - feels his love for the club is helping him to keep his focus.

“I do think having that affinity and affection helps,” said Maher.

“I want to win matches and trophies but I want to do that here.

“That’s always the ultimate aim and I have to keep hold of what we can be for the players, the staff and for everyone.

“We don’t let our heads drop at any time.

“We keep working and we keep fighting because if you do that long enough some things will come good for you.”

Despite the off-field issues the Shrimpers sit sixth in the National League standings.

But Tuesday night's clash brings the toughest possible task as they take on table-topping Notts County who have been beaten just once in 33 league games so far this season.

And Maher is fully aware of the size of the task facing the Shrimpers.

“Luke (Williams) has done a brilliant job with them,” said Maher.

“They’re a fantastic side and what they and Wrexham are doing this year is incredible.

“I’m sure they will continue at the top end and it will be a good tactical battle.

“They’re setting great standards and it’s one we will have to be ready for.

“But we had a great game against them here in the league earlier on in the season and we’re looking forward to this test.”

The match will be the Shrimpers’ sixth game in the space of 18 days and Maher has not been surprised he will again be calling upon other members of his squad with defender Louis Lomas in line to start.

“We knew before this period of games that everyone would be needed and that people would pick up injuries and bumps and bruises,” said Maher.

“We knew we would have to chop and change and that those coming in would have to step up.

“But we’ve got a great group of players and when they have been called upon those who have come in after being out of the team have been fantastic.

“That showed Saturday with having to make a late change and then another one at half-time which could’ve disrupted the flow but the players kept going and got the result against Gateshead.”

Tuesday's match also sees the league’s best attack taking on the best defence.

County have scored 84 goals in 33 goals while Blues have conceded just 26 times in 30 outings so far.