Simon Cox feels part of something special with Southend United

The striker has rediscovered his enjoyment for the game since signing for the Shrimpers.

And he is relishing his role in a close-knit squad at Roots Hall.

“The togetherness of the group here is something special and I really enjoy being part of it,” said Cox.

“Everything we do off the pitch gets offered to every member of the squad not just a select few and it’s great.

“Only the other day about 10 of us and our other halves went to watch the Lion King in London for something a bit different and the spirit here is quite unique.

“That’s why it was great to be able to celebrate my 100th goal within this group.”

Cox has shone for Blues in recent weeks but was forced to endure spell out of favour earlier on in the season which the striker now thinks helped fire him up even further.

“When I was left out of the team it was a reality check for me,” said Cox, who was on the bench for five successive League games.

“It made me realise I wasn’t guaranteed to start and I think I’ve been doing much better since I managed to get back in to the team.”

Cox now tops the Shrimpers scoring charts with nine goals so far this season.

And he is enjoying working with Blues boss Phil Brown.

“The manager here is very approachable and a top man,” said Cox.

“There is nothing that would be too much for him and I’m enjoying being part of his team.”

Cox also feels Brown has been among the biggest influences on his career but he has also enjoyed playing for his previous managers.

“Danny Wilson at Swindon gave me a lot of confidence and he was a really good manager for me,” said Cox.

“He’s up there with those who have helped influence my career and I really enjoyed playing for Roy Hodgson at West Brom.

“He was exactly what we needed and I think we finished ninth with him in charge.

“He was also a very nice man and was similar to Phil Brown.

“But my parents have also had a huge influence on my career and would travel all over to watch me when I was at Swindon.”