IAN Benjamin wants another Shrimpers star to join him in Southend United folklore with a crucial goal against Bury this weekend.

Victory against the Shakers on Sunday could see Blues end the season in the play-offs if Millwall drop points at Bristol Rovers.

And Benjamin – whose own legendary strike against Bury secured Southend promotion into the second tier of English football back in 1991 – would love to see that happen.

“I’ll never ever forget that amazing memory we had when playing Bury and I hope the game this weekend is another special one for the club,” said the former forward.

“The scary thing is that my goal was 26 years ago because it’s still so fresh in my memory. I went back to Bury not so long ago to cover a game for BBC Northampton and all the memories came flooding back to me when I looked out onto the pitch. The goal quite often gets put on Facebook so I won’t ever be allowed to forget about it but I would never want to either because it was a great, great day.”

Benjamin’s memorable goal is often still sung about by the Shrimpers’ supporters.

The 55-year-old – who joined Blues from Exeter City in 1990 – scored 37 goals in 139 games while at Roots Hall.

And he still remains a fond follower of Southend’s fortunes.

“Notts County were my team as a kid so it’s their results and Southend’s that I look for first every weekend,” said Benjamin.

“I had a great time at Northampton so I’ll look to see how they get on as well but there was just something special about Southend. It’s where I played the best football of my career and I wish them all the very best for the weekend.”

Benjamin watched Blues win 4-1 at Peterborough United back in February and will also be keeping tabs on this weekend’s battle with Bury.

But he still remains saddened by the way his successful spell with the Shrimpers came to an end.

“It was a sad moment for me,” said Benjamin.

“The chairman didn’t want to offer me a new contract after comments I made in the press and I was also accused of doing something. It wasn’t me but I took the blame because I’m not the type of person to get other team-mates in trouble but that definitely made it tough to leave.”

However, Benjamin remains a Shrimpers legend and is keen to see the current side keep their cool under pressure this weekend.

“You can’t let your emotions get out of control,” said Benjamin.

“There are bound to be a few nerves but you can’t be over-hyped or you won’t be able to do your job.

“From what I’ve seen, this is a good Southend side and I hope they gain momentum by winning Sunday and making the play-offs.”

Benjamin now combines running a tool-hire company in Kettering with managing Stewarts & Lloyds Corby AFC in Division One of the United Counties League.