SOUTHEND United legend Adam Barrett has revealed he could reconsider his decision to retire.

The Shrimpers centre-back has been in fine form since returning to the starting line-up for the last two matches.

And the 35-year-old could yet back-track on his decision to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

“I still feel as though I have a lot left in the tank and I feel fit too so it’s something I will talk to the manager about at the end of the season,” said Barrett.

“I definitely don’t want to go and play for anyone else but I want to be playing football.

“At my age, it’s no good me sitting in the stands for 20 or 30 games a season, I want to be out on that pitch.

“I’m fully aware that means me having to perform but if the manager sees me having a role to play next season then of course I would stay.

“But I’m just loving being back in the team at the moment and all I’m really thinking about is ending this season on a high to make sure this club gets back into League One.”

Barrett initially struggled to force his way back into the starting line-up after returning to Roots Hall in January.

And he feared the worse when his recall to the side was ended after just six minutes when wet weather forced the game at Bury to be abandoned.

“I just couldn’t believe it when the game was abandoned and I just ended up smiling to myself about it,” said Barrett, who made 289 appearances in his first spell with the Shrimpers.

“It’s the first time in my career I’ve had a game called off like that but thankfully I got another chance. I’m pleased with how it’s been going but we need to keep it going.”

Barrett impressed in the 2-0 win against Mansfield Town before also digging deep to help the Shrimpers triumph 1-0 at Hartlepool United on Monday.

The former Belfairs High School pupil has struck up a good partnership with Cian Bolger and is enjoying playing alongside the Irishman.

“I know Cian had a difficult start here but I really like the lad and we’ve done well together so far,” said Barrett.

“He’s a young lad but he has all the attributes you need to be a very good player and I’m certainly helping him every way I can with my experience.”

The defensive duo will now be seeking more of the same when the fifth placed Shrimpers host Tranmere Rovers on Saturday.

And the Benfleet based Barrett cannot wait to return to action at Roots Hall.

“It’s always special for me to run out wearing the Southend shirt, especially when we’re at home,” said the defender.

“I had a real lump in my throat before the Mansfield game last time out and it’s another big match on Saturday as we look to keep on putting pressure on the teams above us in the table.”