RYAN Leonard is determined to bring success to the Southend United supporters - having tasted being one himself.

Leonard, who is now back from a three match suspension, watched the Shrimpers’ 2-1 defeat at Charlton Athletic from the away end.

And the midfielder is now keen to bring more joy to Blues, starting with Saturday’s clash at Shrewsbury Town which he believes is by far the biggest game of the season so far.

“Of course I would much rather have been playing at Charlton but I enjoyed going to the game as a fan and it was good to see the game from a different point of view,” said Leonard.

“It made a change to be moaning at the lads but days like that when you see the support we have really fire you up to do well.

“I’m sure we will have another big following behind us at Shrewsbury this weekend and we know how important the game is.

“It’s the biggest game of the season so far and I think it’s win or bust for us now really.”

The Shrimpers head to Shropshire on Saturday sitting seventh in the League One standings, a point behind Millwall who currently occupy the final play-off position.

And Leonard is certain Blues will be able to deal with the added pressure.

“There’s pressure in every single game you play and it’s what you get paid to be able to deal with, just like we did the last time we went up,” said the 24-year-old.

“It’s the job we do and we’re looking forward to Saturday.

“Shrewsbury have plenty to play for as well because they’re fighting to get the points they need to stay in the league so it has all the makings of a good game.

“I think it will probably be quite open as well because of us and that should suit us.”

Leonard - who is currently leading an Echosport poll to be Blues’ player of the season - will again line up in the centre of the park.

And he is delighted to have returned from the first suspension of his career, which he received after being red carded against Oldham Athletic.

“It was very strange missing games and not being injured so I’m glad to be back,” added the midfielder.