SOUTHEND United midfielder James Morton has revealed how a pre-match chat with manager Kevin Maher helped him to star in the Shrimpers’ 4-2 win against Boreham Wood.

Morton scored his first Blues goal during an impressive display in the centre of the park.

And Morton was boosted by how Maher helped him prepare for the game at Roots Hall.

“The gaffer spoke to me before the game,” said Morton.

“He told me to play my game and to have a bit of freedom.

“To be given that confidence and a bit of a reminder was really helpful.

“It allowed me to enjoy the game and I tried to have the influence he would want me to have on the game.

“The way he spoke to me says a lot about him and how good he is.

“But I really appreciate it because having clarity in your head around what the manager wants you to do is very helpful. “

Morton was restored to the starting line-up after three games out for Monday’s match at Roots Hall.

And he remains thrilled to have helped Blues pick up all three points.

“It was really pleasing,” said Morton.

“Most aspects of the game, both personally and collective were good and the game plan was executed well, although we were obviously disappointed not to get a clean sheet.

“But to get the win and to continue the unbeaten run is something we’re very proud.”

And Morton was also delighted to open his goalscoring account for the Shrimpers with his first ever headed goal.

“That was a proud moment too and something I'll remember for forever,” said Morton.

“It was really good feeling and I'm not normally someone to get in the box and get a header like that.

“It was a really nice moment and it was a really good ball in from Danny (Waldron).

“I was just in the right place at the right time but when it went it I just had to make sure it was actually true!

“It’s my first ever headed goal but the noise when it went in was a really good feeling and hopefully I can get a few more now.”

Blues are now unbeaten in 13 matches but are without a fixture this weekend.

And Morton has mixed views on whether or not the break is coming at a good time.

"In some ways you do want to continue but I think the body might have other ideas," said the 24-year-old.

"To have a mental and physical break could be good before we go again next Tuesday against Wealdstone which we're all looking forward to.

"We want to finish the season as strong as possible."