Matt Paterson is looking forward to returning to his former club Southampton on Saturday, even though he knows this season has been a learning curve for everyone.

The striker joined Southend United in January 2010 and although he admits it has been a big test for him this season, he is happy to have got plenty of playing time on the pitch.

"It will be good to go back to an old hunting ground and see a few familiar faces," Matt told Blues Player.

"They gave me my chance in professional football, but it will be odd going to the stadium and into the away dressing room.

"It will be different, but I am looking forward to it.

"It's been a big test for me at Southend. It's been a learning curve this season; not just for me personally, but the whole squad.

"I came from a massive club and was thrown into the deep end in such a way, but I am grateful to Southend, because I have played a lot more football.

"I'd be delighted if we can now make it back-to-back wins against Southampton."

Looking ahead to next season and life in League Two, Paterson is hopeful that a summer spent building the side can lead to promotion being on the cards.

He said: "We have a good squad of players here and if we can keep them over the summer, then I think we'll do quite well.

"Having got relegated, we have to do what we've got to do.

"We need to build a good promotion side and hopefully, we can get back into League One."