BEN Coker insists Southend United will head into tomorrow’s clash with Wigan Athletic full of confidence - despite the Latics’ lofty League placing.

Paul Cook’s side currently top the table having gone 16 games without defeat.

But, after securing back-to-back wins themselves, Coker says Blues cannot wait to take on Wigan at Roots Hall.

“The whole place has been buzzing this week and we’re all really excited about the game this weekend,” said Coker.

“The win and the clean sheet was massive for us at Peterborough on Saturday and everyone is full of confidence again.”

Blues’ 1-0 win at Peterborough followed a 3-2 victory against Scunthorpe United in Chris Powell’s first game in charge at Roots Hall.

And Coker is enjoying life under the new boss, who himself lined up at left-back during his own career.

“It’s great for me that the manager played at left-back himself and I’ll be looking to learn as much from him as I can,” said Coker.

“I’m really enjoying working with him already and he’s made it a really positive environment for us here.

“The two games have gone well and it was great to get the win at Peterborough.”

The back-to-back wins have seen Blues move up to 15th in the League One table.

And the victories have been secured with Coker wearing the captain’s armband for the first time in his career.

“I certainly wasn’t expecting to be the captain, but it was nice for the manager to show that faith in me,” said Coker, who has skippered the side in the absence of Anton Ferdinand.

“It’s not something I’ve done before in my career but I’ve enjoyed doing it.

“It was a big surprise but I’ll do the best I can in that role for however long I’m asked to do it.”

And Coker - who has started the last nine games after recovering from the broken leg he suffered during pre-season - is keen to keep spirits high.

“I think everyone can see the togetherness we have but getting good results certainly helps with that,” said the 27-year-old.

“We all know Wigan will be a tough team to play against but we’re also on a high at the moment and we want to keep that going.”

>FORMER Blues boss Phil Brown is being linked with the vacant managerial role at Bradford City.

Ex-Leeds United boss Simon Grayson is also in contention.