35-year-old centre-back Graham Coughlan hopes that manager Paul Sturrock can work his magic again at Southend United this season.
Coughlan, who put pen to paper on a one-year deal yesterday, links up with Scot Sturrock for the third time in his career.
Twice the Irishman has played under the Blues boss at both Plymouth and Sheffield Wednesday.
And Coughlan now hopes 'the man with the Midas touch' can bring success back to Roots Hall.
"I don't know what it is with myself but I always seem to respond to the Paul Sturrock way," Graham told Blues Player minutes after signing his new deal.
"I can't put my finger on it but he is just one of those loveable characters and might I add he has been very, very successful as well.
"He just seems to have the Midas touch at any club he seems to progress and I hope I can be part of that success again."
Part of Coughlan's role at Southend will see the experienced defender take charge of United's reserve side.
He will also work with the defence during training and he hopes his experience, that has seen him play over 400 games, will rub off on some of the younger Southend players.
"I am not quite ready to hang the boots up - there is life in the old dog yet," he joked.
"My priority will obviously be playing, if selected, but I was made a fantastic offer that was too good to turn down from the manager.
"It is an exciting time, not only for Graham Coughlan but for Southend United, and I am looking forward to getting started.
"12 months ago I completed my UEFA A license and over the last few seasons I have worked with youth teams and reserves at Shrewsbury Town.
"This is another chance for me to further enhance my coaching career."
For now though Coughlan is just pleased to see smiling faces around Boots and Laces after admitting the atmosphere at the start of pre-season was not particularly welcoming.
"I have been at the club for a few weeks now and I have enjoyed my time," he said. "The smiles are back on peoples faces but it wasn't like that when I first arrived.
"I think the future is looking a lot brighter now than it was perhaps one or two months ago."
