Southend United legend Ian Benjamin will make an emotional return to Blues this week on the training field.

Shrimpers boss David Webb has called on the help of his former hitman to give the Third Division club's current crop of players a masterclass in finishing.

And Benjamin, whose winning goal at Bury in 1991 clinched Blues' first ever promotion to the old Second Division, was more than happy to answer Webb's call.

"It will be great to come back to a place I have so many happy memories of," said Benjamin, who played for 12 league clubs and is now 39 years-old.

"Southend United are very special to me and my time there was the best of my entire career.

"I've spoken to David Webb quite regularly recently and have been keeping my eye on a few players on the non-league circuit for him.

"And he asked me if I would like to come in on Thursday morning and give his current Southend team some shooting practice.

"I jumped at the chance to come back to Southend and hope I can pass some of my knowledge on to the lads.

"I enjoy coaching and I will be trying to help improve their finishing, as well as their general touch and shielding of the ball."

Benjamin played in every division outside the Premiership for Blues, following a free transfer switch from Exeter City in March 1990.

He scored 33 goals in 122 league appearances for the Shrimpers, forming successful front parings with both David Crown and Brett Angell.

And Benjamin, who possessed near-perfect close control, had a knack for grabbing important goals during his spell with Southend - including that famous goal at Bury.

"I used to get the goals in the big games, but I was just lucky," said the modest frontman, who has just signed for Jewson league outfit Soham Town Rangers.

"It still doesn't seem that long ago I was playing for Southend and I think about my time at Roots Hall every single day of my life.

"There are so many memories. The Bury match, beating Blackburn Rovers 3-0 and Newcastle 4-0, which put us top of Division One.

"In fact, the only disappointment was that we didn't make it three promotions in a row and reach the Premiership."

And Benjamin revealed he never tires of hearing the Southend fans sing "who put the ball in the Bury net", when they see him.

"It's always flattering to hear and the players used to sing it too," said the forward, who also scored Southend's first ever goal in the old Second Division against Bristol City.

"I came back to Roots Hall for the recent FA Cup match against Canvey Island and I was amazed by the reception I received.

"I hadn't been to Southend for a long time, but a load of Blues fans pulled me into the bar and kept me there for 20 minutes.

"It took me completely by surprise, but it was very special to receive such a warm welcome all these years later!"

Legend - Ian Benjamin

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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