KEVIN Maher says Southend United must look forward to facing Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup.

The Shrimpers host the League One side in an intriguing first round tie on Saturday.

And Maher wants Blues to relish taking on higher opposition.

“It’s important you look forward to it because it will be a great atmosphere and you want to come up against as bigger clubs as possible in the FA Cup if you can,” said Maher.

“With them being local as well they’ll bring a big crowd and it should make for a good game against a top side.

“They’re one of the best teams in this stage of this competition but it will be good to pit ourselves against them and see where we can go.”

The Shrimpers head into the clash in good form having not lost in four games.

And Maher is keen to ensure his team do all they can to triumph.

“We want to do what we do and play as well as we can” said Maher.

“We’ll look to do the things we’re very good at to the best of our ability.

“We’ll look to be organised and we’ll have a gameplan of what we think we can do.

“I’m sure Charlton will look at it and think it’s a good one but a tough one and so will we.”

The match will also see Maher pitting his wits against his former Blues team-mate Nathan Jones who has been in charge of Charlton since February.

And Maher is full of admiration for how well Jones has done in management.

“Nathan is someone I’ve stayed in touch with,” said Maher.

“I’ve asked advice from him and he’s done brilliantly in his managerial career to get where he has got to.

“He’s worked his socks off and deserves everything he gets.

“I’ve watched Charlton a bit and you can see he’s getting his imprint on the team in terms of their work ethic and what’s wanted from them.

“They’re a massive club who have a top manager now.

“They’re so well organised but we’re looking forward to taking them on.”