SOUTHEND United centre-back Adam Barrett heads into tomorrow’s crunch clash at Morecambe having been voted League Two player of the month for April.

The 35-year-old saw off competition from Shrewsbury Town’s Connor Goldson, Oxford United’s on loan striker Kemar Roofe and Portsmouth midfielder Jed Wallace to receive the accolade.

And Barrett was thrilled to pick up the award for the third time in his career.

“It’s always nice to be recognised for the work you’ve put in and this is no different,” said the Benfleet based Barrett.

“We’ve had a fantastic seven games and it’s an award for the team really but I would certainly give it up for promotion because that’s what I really want.”

Barrett has impressed alongside Cian Bolger since forcing his way back into the starting line-up on his return to Roots Hall.

Their impressive partnership saw the Shrimpers go the whole of April without conceding a goal.

But Barrett is now desperate to continue the remarkable record with another clean sheet at Morecambe as Blues hope to secure promotion.

“We’ve put ourselves into a fantastic position and it’s all riding on this game now,” said the former Belfairs High School pupil.

“We know what we’ve got to do and that is winning the game because I fancy Bury to win at Tranmere.

“It’s a cup final for us and we know if we win then we’re up.

“I just can’t wait for it to start now and I know the atmosphere will be tremendous because we’re taking up an unbelievable number of fans.”

Barrett, who also grew up supporting the Shrimpers, is therefore desperate to come out on top against the Shrimps.

And, as he attempts to do so, the defender will still be wearing his old fashioned black boots.

“My boots are the dinosaurs of football and I’m fully aware of that,” laughed Barrett.

“The lads are always on at me to trying and get me in a bright pair of boots that are orange or bright pink.

“A white pair of boots used to be seen as outrageous but now all of a sudden I’m in the minority.

“I’m still wearing Adidas World Cups and every takes the mickey out of them but I’m sticking with them.

“They’ve been good to me throughout my career and I’m not one of these fancy dans.

“All these bright boots are a load of old toffee to be honest so I’ll be sticking true to my boots and hopefully I’ll win wearing them on Saturday.”