SOUTHEND United’s Conor Clifford wants to show Chesterfield what they missed out on when the two teams do battle at the Proact Stadium tomorrow.

The Irish midfielder, who is favourite to replace the injured Marc Laird in the Shrimpers’ midfield, spent a month on trial with the Spireites during pre-season.

And he is therefore eager to impress against them this weekend as Blues bid to continue their unbeaten start to the League Two season.

“It’s horrible to see what’s happened to Marc as he’s a mate of mine already but hopefully I’ll get selected and be able to do the business,” said the 21-year-old.

“We’d all like to see Marc back soon but injuries happen in football and I’m keen to play.

“I was with Chesterfield for a month as well during pre-season and I enjoyed it.

“I don’t think I saw a football the whole time I was there but it was certainly good for my fitness.

“It didn’t really work out for one reason or another but Phil Brown brought me in and I’d like to repay him with my performances on the pitch, ideally starting with tomorrow.”

Clifford has come off the bench for two of Blues three league games already this term and has helped Phil Brown’s team collect a maximum nine points.

The midfielder now wants to make it four wins in a row but knows it will be difficult against a Chesterfield team who have been heavily tipped for promotion this term.

“It’s certainly going to be a difficult game because Chesterfield are up towards the already and people have been saying they’re the team to beat this year,” said Clifford.

“Beating them would therefore be a big scalp for us and I think it would also show the rest of the league what we’re about.

“I think it will be a good footballing game because I know both teams like to the get ball down and play so it should be good one to watch but hopefully we’ll be able to come out on top and continue our good start.”

But Clifford will face competition from both fit-again Michael Timlin and Kevan Hurst for a place in the team, along with Jack Payne.