MARC Laird wants to help Southend United banish their Wembley blues when they resume League Two action at Rochdale tonight.

The 27-year-old midfielder was cup tied for Sunday’s JPT final defeat against Crewe Alexandra.

But he now hopes to make an immediate return to action tonight and make the Shrimpers starting line-up under new Shrimpers boss Phil Brown for the first time.

“Of course it was frustrating I couldn’t play on Sunday and to also have been left out for the manager’s first couple of games in charge but hopefully I’ll get a chance this evening,” said Laird.

“I’ve been working hard in training and trying to impress so I’m hoping I’ll get a chance soon and it’s then up to me to try and make sure I take it.”

Laird wants that opportunity to come in this evening’s rearranged encounter at Spotland.

And he is desperate to breathe life back in to Blues’ stuttering push for the play-offs.

The Shrimpers have not won in their last six games and have triumphed just twice in their last 14 outings.

However, Laird still believes a top seven finish is possible for Southend.

“We’ve not been doing as well as we’d like just recently but other teams around have also dropped points so there’s still a chance we can get in to the play-offs,” said the former Millwall and Leyton Orient man.

“But if it’s going to happen then we must just look at our own performances and results rather than worrying about anyone else’s because if we can win the remaining five games then we might well be in the play-offs.”

Laird also wants to play his part in improving Blues’ fortunes by rediscovering his scoring touch in front of the goal.

The Scotsman has gone 17 games since scoring against Rochdale at Roots Hall last November.

And he will now be bidding to hit the back of the net against the same opponents again this evening.

“I’m disappointed not to have got more goals this season but hopefully it’s a good omen my last goal came against Rochdale and I can do the same tonight,” said Laird.

“But as long as we win to bounce back Sunday and keep alive our chances for the play-offs then I’m not really too worried who scores.”