SOUTHEND United skipper John White insists the Shrimpers have fully recovered from the play-off heartache they suffered at the end of last season.

Blues were painfully beaten by Burton Albion in the two legged semi-final back in May.

But White believes Southend are now only focused on the forthcoming campaign.

And the reliable right-back was buoyed by Saturday’s 5-0 win at Great Wakering Rovers in the Shrimpers’ first pre-season friendly of the summer.

“What happened last season is all in the past and has been forgotten about now,” said White.

“None of that is lingering around anymore and none of the lads are thinking about it either.

“It’s a fresh start and it was nice going away to Spain and us all being together.

“The bond we had last year got us to where we ended up and the trip certainly helped that togetherness.

“It also helped with the fitness and I think we showed that here against Wakering.

“We look to be ahead of the game at the moment.”