SOUTHEND United’s Jack Payne is determined to make a big impression in tomorrow’s Essex derby against Colchester.

A crowd of at least 10,500 is expected for the U’s first visit to Roots Hall since 2009.

And the diminutive Payne is eager to take centre stage.

“I can’t wait for the game because we all know how important it is to the fans for us to beat Colchester,” said the attacking midfielder.

“I’ve been at the club since I was 15 and even in the youth team the games we had against them were always a bit fiery.

“Because of that and what the coaches would tell us I’ve known about the rivalry for quite some time and I know what it means to our fans.

“You could see that on Boxing Day when we won at Colchester and hopefully we’ll see that again tomorrow because we want to keep the run we’re on going.

“I feel in good form too, I feel confident and hopefully I can help us get the result we all want.”

Blues, who are unbeaten in their last three outings, head into the game sitting seventh in the League One standings.

Payne has played a huge part in the recent revival, starting 13 of the last 14 games.

And he continues to shine despite regularly being the smallest player on the pitch.

“My height isn’t an issue and nobody ever said anything about it to me when I was coming through the youth system,” said the youngster.

“I was always confident I would make it as well and now I’m just glad to be getting the chance to play more regularly.

“Tomorrow is another really big game and I’m really looking forward to it.

“But I have to make sure I keep playing well because I want to keep my place in the team.”