SOUTHEND United left-back Stephen Hendrie wants a difficult season to end with a memorable cup final triumph this weekend.

Hendrie found first team opportunities hard to come by with the Shrimpers and has spent the second half of the season on loan with Scottish Premiership side Motherwell.

The Steelmen face Celtic in the Scottish FA Cup at Hampden Park on Saturday.

And Hendrie feels a shock success would be the perfect way to bring his campaign to a conclusion.

“It’s been a tough season for me at times but I’m buzzing about the cup final and it’s going to be a really big day for the club,” said Hendrie.

“Obviously Celtic will be tough opposition but everyone is looking forward to it, especially the fans.

“We don’t know the team yet but I’ve started the last couple of games and really hope to be involved.”

Hendrie joined Motherwell on loan in January but has made just six appearances since making the move.

But, despite wishing he had played more, the 23-year-old has thoroughly enjoyed being back in Scotland.

“I haven’t always played as much as I would’ve liked but I’ve enjoyed the second half of the season,” said Hendrie.

“It’s been good being back closer to my family again and the cup final is the best way to be finishing things off.”

Hendrie still has a year left on his contract at Roots Hall.

But he has yet to think about his long-term future and is instead choosing to focus on Saturday’s showdown.

“I haven’t really thought about the future or what might be happening next season just yet,” said Hendrie, who left Blues shortly after Chris Powell’s appointment as manager.

“All I’m thinking about at the moment is the cup final we have coming up against Celtic on Saturday.”