ADAM Thompson has revealed how tough talks among the team have helped to kick-start Southend United’s season.

The Shrimpers - who host bottom of the table Shrewsbury Town at Roots Hall tomorrow - have taken seven points from the last three games after previously struggling to find their best form.

And Thompson believes a team meeting held days after Blues were beaten 3-0 at Rochdale has helped Phil Brown’s side get back on track.

“We got together as a team and had a harsh chat about things,” said the centre-back. We told a few people how it was and some strong words were said which I think has helped.

“Whenever we’ve had sticky situations in the last couple of years we’ve had these chats and we’ve been able to bounce back.

“The mentality has changed over the last week, we’re sturdier at the back and there’s a lot more hard work being done up front but we have to keep it going over a much longer period.”

Blues’ recent form has seen them move out of the relegation zone and up to 15th in the League One table.

But Thompson feels tomorrow’s clash with the Shrews will be tougher than the Shrimpers have faced in recent weeks.

“This game will be harder than the last three because of where they are in the table, the fact they have a new manager and because we’re at home,” said the 24-year-old.

“The game being at Roots Hall makes it easier for them to sit in which in the past has made it tough for us to breakthrough.

“But with the way we’re playing at the moment hopefully we can unlock it, especially the way Anthony Wordsworth is playing at the moment.”

Wordsworth has hit the headlines with five goals in his last seven games but Blues have also started to improve at the back.

Thompson has helped to secure two clean sheets in three games since being brought back into the team. And he is relishing being part of the new game plan.

“We’ve been working on things defensively and a new style which sees us pressing more aggressively much higher up the pitch,” said Thompson.

“It certainly seems to be working at the moment.”

Thompson will now be seeking another clean sheet against the Shrews and will do so after being given a new nickname.

“Ryan Inniss thought my name was Adam Stompson,” laughed Thompson.

“That’s why all the lads are calling me Stommo now.”