Southend United midfielder Carl Hutchings has said he doesn't regret turning his back on a move to tomorrow's (Saturday's) Roots Hall visitors Kidderminster Harriers.

The 27-year-old was offered the financial security of a three-year contract with the West Midlands side over the summer after his contract with the Shrimpers expired.

But after seeing a switch to Second Division Queens Park Rangers collapse, Hutchings opted to return to Roots Hall, despite only getting a short-term deal.

"I still believe I made the right choice and I'm very happy with Southend," he said."Joining Kidderminster would have looked after me financially, but job satisfaction is equally important and I wanted to go back to Southend because I felt comfortable there. Find out more about Southend United FC "I only signed a month-to-month deal at Roots Hall because we couldn't agree a wage package. But I'd be prepared to commit my future to the club if there was room to renegotiate as I'm enjoying my football here."

And Hutchings dedicated his new lease of life in the centre of the park to the youngsters around him. "We've got a lot of young players and their enthusiasm has definitely rubbed off on me," he added.

"It gives you a real buzz being around them on the training pitch and during games.

"They've inspired me to get around the pitch more and I'd like to think I can help them in return with my experience and vocal encouragement.

"We've got the makings of a good side here and I'm sure it won't be too long before we start climbing the table. The League is so tight and a few wins will put things right."

Blues are 15th in Division Three, only three points off bottom spot and one place above Kidderminster.

But Rob Newman's team, who hope to bounce back from two straight defeats, are also just four points adrift of the play-offs.

Newman said: "After losing our last two matches on the road we need to make tomorrow's Roots Hall game against Kidderminster count!"

Midfielder Kevin Maher is still doubtful with a knee injury, but long-term crocks, winger Scott Forbes and striker Tony Richards, are added to the squad. Centre-half Stephen Broad could also return to Blues' defence.

Southend (from): Flahavan, Searle, McSweeney, Whelan, Broad, Johnson, Hutchings, Forbes, Belgrave, Rawle, Bramble, Cort, Maher, Richards, Kerrigan, Webb, Thurgood, Harris, Gay.

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