WILL ATKINSON insists Southend United cannot wait to take on Hartlepool at Roots Hall this weekend.

The Shrimpers are still smarting from their FA Cup exit at the hands of Conference club Chester.

And Atkinson is keen to play a part in putting things right.

“The boys are all chomping at the bit to get back out there after losing to Chester,” said the 26-year-old midfielder.

“We want to get a good result and I think the game has been made bigger by the Chester defeat.

“However, in terms of the league I wouldn’t say it was any bigger than any of the other league games we will play.

“We know we’re still a good team but we need to play with freedom and confidence to show that on Saturday.

“And of course I want to be playing.”

Atkinson has been an unused substitute in the Shrimpers’ last two matches and is disappointed not to have made more starts this season.

“Personally it’s been frustrating not to be playing,” said Atkinson, who has started just eight games this term.

“I was in the team most weeks last season and this year it’s been slightly different.

“I obviously want another chance and then hope to be able to keep the shirt.

“But we all need to pull together to put it right.”

However, Atkinson feels Hartlepool will be tough opponents despite them currently being bottom of the table.”

“Hartlepool have new found confidence with their new manager and could be hard to play,” said the former Bradford City man.

“But hopefully they will think they can get something out of the game and that can play in to our hands. “