RYAN Cresswell has warned his former Southend United side not to relax in the closing stages against Wycombe Wanderers this weekend.

The former Shrimpers centre-back lined up twice for Northampton Town against the Chairboys this term, including on the final day of the regulation season.

And, on both occasions, Wycombe scored deep into stoppage time.

“Wycombe are a well organised side but the thing that struck me most about them was that they never gave up,” said Cresswell.

“They scored 96th and 97th minute goals against us so Southend will need to be aware of that and also how dangerous they are from set pieces.

“You saw that in their semi-final against Plymouth Argyle but Southend are a strong side too and I think whoever is the most clinical side will win because I don’t see there being too many chances being created.”

Cresswell spent one season with the Shrimpers, making 54 appearances at the heart of the back four.

That spell included an appearance at Wembley for the 2013 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy with Crewe Alexandra.

But the 27-year-old believes there is far more pressure on the game this weekend.

“A play-off final is much bigger than a JPT final and I would love to see Southend win it,” said Cresswell.

“Obviously I’ve played against them as well this season and I thought they were a very energetic, fit side who really got in your face.

“They can definitely win the game as Phil Brown has really got them going and I’ll be there to cheer them too.”

Cresswell remains in touch with many of his ex Shrimpers team-mates, including Ryan Leonard and Barry Corr, plus first team coach Graham Coughlan.

He is also friends with winger David Worrrall, having played alongside him with Bury, and he joked he was available to offer them all advice on how to score against Wycombe.

“I scored in both of the games we had against Wycombe so if any of the lads want to give me a call then that’s fine,” laughed Cresswell.

“But I’ve spoken to Barry, Lenny and Cocko since the second leg against Stevenage along with Wozza who is a great lad and I would particularly love it if Southend could win for him after everything he’s gone through this season.”