German midfielder Lars Unger revealed today that Euro 96 played a big part in his decision to join Southend United.

Unger, who has joined Blues on loan from Fortuna Dusseldorf until the end of the season, was spellbound by the atmosphere when his country beat England in the tournament's semi-final at Wembley.

"I watched the last European Championships on TV and I was amazed by the England supporters," admitted the 26-year-old.

"They created a very special atmosphere which made me want to come over here and play in front of such fans and sample this feeling for myself."

Unger eventually got his wish this week when he swapped the German Second Division for the English Third Division.

"I'm happy that I have been given the chance to play in England at last and I'm looking forward to playing for Southend," he said.

"At the moment I am getting used to living in a new country, which is a bit strange, but I speak good English and it is easier for me to come here and play than if I'd moved to Italy or Spain where I don't know the language."

A product of top German side Werder Bremen's youth academy, Unger has played at the highest level in the Bundesliga and also in the European Champions League.

He also has 11 German under-21 caps to his credit and tasted victory against England at schoolboy level when he scored the first goal in a 4-1 win for Germany's under-15 side in front of 50,000 people at Berlin's Olympic Stadium.

Unger, who is more used to playing at some of Europe's top stadiums, such as Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, will make his Shrimpers debut at The Shay on Saturday - the humble home of Halifax Town.

"This is a big test for me, but it is one that I want to pass and I can't wait to get started," said Unger.

"All players dream of playing in the English Premier League and I am no different, but my main concern is to do well for Southend."

Lars Unger - ready for test

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