ADAM Barrett does not fear failing to live up to the standards he set during his first spell at Southend United.

The centre-back played a hugely prominent part in the Shrimpers securing two successive promotions during his previous stint with the club.

But, despite seeing Freddy Eastwood and Lee Barnard struggle to make an impact on their own returns to Roots Hall after a successful initial spell, Barrett remains unconcerned.

“I’ve signed here until the end of the season, it’s only a short period of time and I’m just looking forward to getting my teeth stuck into that,” said the centre-back.

“Those memories will stick with me and the Blues fans forever and nothing can change that.

“Of course there’s pressure on me but people like Spencer Prior and Andy Edwards came back to the club and enjoyed promotions so hopefully I can do the same as them.”

Barrett made 289 appearances in six seasons with the Shrimpers before leaving in the summer 2010.

The club’s well documented financial situation led to his departure.

But Barrett never held a grudge and insisted he always wanted to come back to Roots Hall before his career came to an end.

“Things happened before when I was here but that’s football and they will never tarnish the great years I had,” said the 35-year-old.

“When I left I actually always hoped that one day I would get to come back.

“I never knew how and if it was going to come about and in what capacity it might be in.

“But I’m delighted to be back because I do feel like there’s some unfinished business for me at the club.

“I would like to thank the manager for the opportunity and I can’t wait to get started.”

Barrett will go in to the Southend squad for tomorrow’s game at Oxford United.

And he is thrilled his young family – son Harrison aged seven and daughter Georgia aged five – will now remember him playing for Blues.

“Harry was two when I left and was mascot once too but it’s lovely that he and my daughter will now have memories of me playing for Southend,” said Barrett.

“Lots of my friends and their children also come to the games so it’s a very special feeling for me.”