MATT Lund will be lining up for Rochdale against Southend United this afternoon.

But if things had worked out differently the midfielder could well have been starting for the Shrimpers.

Lund ended last season on loan at Roots Hall and boss Phil Brown was keen to keep him at the club.

However, he eventually opted to join Rochdale and has been in fine form for Keith Hill’s side this season.

“I offered Matty a contract but it wasn’t his type of deal in terms of how long it was so he opted to join Rochdale and I’m pleased he’s being doing well,” said Shrimpers boss Brown.

“He’s a good sort to have around but we already had Marc Laird and Ryan Leonard who are fairly similar to him.

“Hopefully our midfield can keep him quiet this afternoon because he’s a good player and he’s also scored a few goals this season which I didn’t know he had in his locker.

“I’m pleased for him and hope he continues to do well, just not today.”

Rochdale boast the home record in the division having won 14 times at their own ground in the league this season.

Scott Hogan currently leads their scoring charts and is the second highest scorer at basement level with 17 league goals this season.