JOE Pigott feels Southend United manager Chris Powell will bring success back to the Shrimpers.

Powell handed Pigott his senior debut when they worked together at Charlton Athletic.

And Pigott is sure Powell will be a big hit for Blues.

“I know the manager, he gave me my debut at Charlton and I’m sure he will do well at Southend,” said Pigott.

“He had great success in League One when he was at Charlton so he knows what it’s all about at this level and he had a good end to the season with Southend too.

“Given time, I think he will do a really good job at Southend and I certainly hope that will be the case.”

However, just like Powell, Pigott will also be looking to make a big impression in League One next term after also enjoying a promising end to the campaign.

Pigott scored five goals in 10 starts after joining AFC Wimbledon in January.

And he is keen to keep on hitting the back of the net on a regular basis.

“I was really pleased with the way the season ended and how things went for me at AFC Wimbledon after joining in January,” said Pigott, who joined the Dons from Maidstone United.

“I got a few goals and hopefully I can keep on doing that next season and we can enjoy a good year as a team as well.”

Pigott’s goals helped AFC Wimbledon avoid relegation by three points during quite a nervy end to the season.

But the Dons will be hoping to feature far higher next time around and Pigott is already looking forward to lining up against Southend.

“When the fixtures come out the Southend games are ones I will be looking out for right away,” said Pigott.

“It will be great to come back to Roots Hall and to catch up with the familiar faces that are still there.

“I know a few of the lads from that team are still there so it will be good to see them.”

And Pigott is also still in touch with people he met while with the Shrimpers.

“Ben Clarkson texts me every now and then and I’ve also spoken to the lads whenever I’ve seen them,” said Pigott.

“But it will be good to see them again when we’re playing at Roots Hall and I’m sure we will be talking about Wembley.”

In total, Pigott netted 12 goals in 31 starts while with the Shrimpers but will forever be remembered for his equalising effort against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley.