JOE Gubbins is setting his sights high on his return to Southend United.

The 22-year-old defender, who made 10 appearances while on loan with the Shrimpers in 2022, is back with the National League club on a permanent basis.

And, after signing a two year deal with Blues, Gubbins revealed he was targetting promotion with Kevin Maher’s side.

“I expect it to be a tough season but I want to come here, make an impact and help the team get promoted,” said Gubbins.

“I know what the club’s all about and how big the fanbase is so I’m delighted to be back and really, really excited to get going.”

Gubbins will face a fight to work his way into the Shrimpers starting line-up with skipper Nathan Ralph also in contention for the left sided centre-back role.

But Gubbins believes he now brings more to the team than in his first spell with Blues.

“I think now I’m older I want to bring some leadership qualities from the back,” said Gubbins.

“I want to put my mark on the team in terms of communication, passing, defending, and more importantly, helping the team get clean sheets.”

Gubbins made 42 appearances while on loan with Accrington Stanley last season.

And Shrimpers boss Maher has continued to keep tabs on the centre-back.

“He did ever so well for us on loan in the period he was with us, so he was someone I kept in touch with and watched his career,” said Maher “He’s gone and played more than 30 games for Accrington, which will do him the world of good.

“It’s a great place to learn your trade and it will stand him in good stead coming here.

“There’s still loads of room for development and he’s at a great age for us.

“There’s plenty of work to do, but he’s got quality on the ball with his left foot and he’s also filled out strength-wise as well.

“It gives us great flexibility on that side of the pitch.”