SOUTHEND United left-back Stephen Hendrie insists he only has a point to prove to himself when he faces his former Blackburn Rovers team at Roots Hall tomorrow.
Hendrie endured a miserable season-long loan with Rovers last season, making just four league appearances during a 10 month stint at Ewood Park.
But the 22-year-old does not feel under added pressure to perform well this weekend.
“It’s a normal game for me with three points to play for and I’m hoping we get them,” said Hendrie.
“The only point I ever feel like I have to prove is to myself and that will be the case again tomorrow.
“Blackburn are a former team of mine so I know it’s going to be a difficult game.
“Things have changed a little bit since I was there and some players have come and gone but they look strong and it will be a tough test for us.
“But it’s one we’re looking forward to and we all want to get off to a good start.”
Hendrie looks certain to start the clash at left-back.
And the Scotsman - who returned to Roots Hall in the summer - is feeling fit on the eve of a new season which he hopes will see him playing far more football.
“I didn’t play anywhere near as much as I would have liked last season and obviously my main aim this year is to get more game time,” said Hendrie, who also had a loan spell with Blues in 2016.
“I’m feeling fit and sharp and that will improve the more we play.
“Pre-season has been good and it will be good to get underway.
“It’s an exciting game to start off with and I can’t wait to get out there now.”
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