WILL Atkinson is sensing a familiar promotion vibe with Southend United.

The energetic midfielder went up from League Two with Bradford City back in 2013.

And he now feels Blues could be about to do the same.

“There’s definitely a good vibe around the place which makes you feel promotion could really be possible for us this season,” said Atkinson.

“We had a familiar feeling when I went up with Bradford and it’s same with Southend now.

“The type of spirit we have here is very hard to find and I think that’s been shown by how we’ve won the last two games.

“The manager has done well getting such a good group together and now we want to keep this good run going to get even higher up the table.”

The Shrimpers, who have fought hard to win at both Oxford United and Portsmouth in their last two outings, are currently fifth in the League Two table.

Phil Brown’s side are four points behind Burton Albion who occupy the final automatic promotion position.

And Atkinson is keen to play a prominent play in overhauling that gap.

The 26-year-old found himself out of favour earlier on in the season, starting four games out of 15 before forcing his way back in to the side.

He has now started six of the last seven games and is now determined not to drop out.

“It was really frustrating not being in the team so much earlier on in the season but now I’m back in I’ll be doing all I can to make sure I stay in,” said Atkinson.

“You need to stay mentally strong when you’re not playing and hopefully I’ve done enough to stay in the side for Saturday’s game with York.”

Atkinson has started the last two games on the left hand side of midfield and is relishing his new role in the side.

“I’m quite enjoying playing there if I’m honest,” said the former Bradford City man.

“The manager has asked me to tuck in a bit to allow Ben Coker the space to get forward and I’ve got quite a good relationship with him now.

“It seems to be going quite well and long may that continue.”