MISSING out on automatic promotion on the final day of the season at Morecambe inspired Southend United’s play-off glory, according to Shrimpers midfielder Jack Payne.

The youngster finished the season as the Shrimpers second highest goalscorer after hitting the back of the net eight times.

But Payne felt it was the character of the team and how they channelled their pain which ultimately resulted in promotion with a dramatic win against Wycombe Wanderers.

“After Morecambe we had to use that hurt to fuel us and we did exactly that so it’s been perfect,” said the 20-year-old, who came on at Wembley during the first half of extra time.

“To be honest, I thought we dominated most of the game so I thought we still had a chance to win when I came on.

“And to win it like we did was a dream come true. It was the best day of my life.”

Payne also helped the Shrimpers triumph by firing home a penalty during the shoot-out which Phil Brown’s side eventually won 7-6.

But he was not feeling at all nervous as he stepped up to take it.

“I felt fine to be honest,” said Payne, who came through the youth system at Roots Hall.

“Before the game I knew there was a chance I might take one, so I thought about it and decided what way I was going to put it.

“It’s different once it actually comes down to it and I take them in training all the time.

“But I’ve been the penalty taker for all the teams I’ve played in up until now and I enjoy taking them, so it was fine and I’m just so happy we won.”