SOUTHEND United new boy John-Joe O’Toole admits it will be weird lining up against Northampton Town tomorrow, just two days after the leaving the club.

As was revealed in Echosport earlier this week, O’Toole will be on loan with the Shrimpers until late January.

And his first game will be against the Cobblers at Roots Hall this weekend.

“It will be quite weird to play against Northampton on Saturday, considering I was with the players there until fairly recently,” said the 26-year-old.

“I feel as it though it’s a good opportunity for me coming here because things weren’t working for at Northampton.

“Sometimes you just have to get out and play games and that’s what I’ve decided to do.”

O’Toole’s decision to sign for the Shrimpers also made it third time lucky for manager Phil Brown.

He had previously twice missed out on bringing the attacking midfielder to the club.

And O’Toole revealed Brown’s desire to bring him in played a huge part in the move.

“The manager was a big reason in me coming here,” said O’Toole.

“He’s been around for ages and it’s always good to feel wanted.

“He’s been after me for a while now and things can only go one way for me.

“I’m feeling very positive about the move and I already know Ben Coker and John White from being at Colchester with them so I will have people to talk to here as well!”

Blues head in to tomorrow’s game with Northampton sitting fifth in the League Two table.

And O’Toole is confident Southend can remain up towards the top of the table.

“Southend were very good when I played against them last season and I’m sure they still are,” said the former Republic of Ireland under 21 international.

“You always get a tough game against Southend and we have some good players here.

“Training has gone really well and I hope that this is a sign of good things to come.”