SOUTHEND United midfielder Jean-Paul Kalala insists he is mentally and physically ready to deal with Dagenham and Redbridge tomorrow.

Kalala was well below his best at Preston North End last weekend in his first start since a family bereavement.

But, after a hard week’s work in training, Kalala is convinced he can be back to his best against the Daggers at Victoria Road.

“I was very disappointed with my display at Preston and it’s certainly not what I expect from myself,” said Kalala, who was taken off towards the start of the second half at Deepdale.

“I know it wasn’t what the manager expects from me either and training this week has been about getting myself back to the level I need to be at.

“I’ve worked hard so I’m feeling fit but it was more of a mental thing to be honest.

“I’m now mentally where I need to be as well and I’m confident of being able to play far better against Dagenham.”

Table-topping Blues go in to the game in fine form, having not suffered a defeat since losing at Swindon Town in September.

However, Kalala is taking nothing for granted against a Dagenham team who are third from bottom in the League Two standings.

“We are expecting a seriously hard game here and we will not be taking Dagenham lightly,” said Kalala, 29.

“We might be top of the league but we haven’t had any easy games to get there.

“The last few matches have been really hard fought and we’re expecting more of the same against Dagenham.

“You get funny results all the time in our league but we want to avoid one tomorrow.”

FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S ECHO