SOUTHEND United winger Stephen McLaughlin is eager to head into a memorable summer on a high.

McLaughlin is set to get married this June.

And the Irishman feels a successful end to the season would make the ceremony even more enjoyable.

“If we could have a great end to the season then it would make things even more special,” said McLaughlin.

“It’s a very busy time at the moment and there’s certainly a lot to organise.

“My missus has gone back to sort a couple of things out but of course it would be great if we could end the season on a high.”

On present form, that certainly seems possible for the Shrimpers, who have yet to lose since the arrival of manager Chris Powell.

Blues have won four and drawn one of Powell’s five games in charge, with McLaughlin playing a leading part.

The winger now sits fourth in League One’s assist charts having created 10 goals for his team-mates.

But the 27-year-old is still eager to improve at Oldham Athletic tomorrow.

“Saturday wasn’t my best performance and I wasn’t very happy with how I played against Portsmouth,” said McLaughlin.

“I got the assist for Jason Demetriou’s first goal, but I know I can play much better and that’s exactly what I’ll be looking to do against Oldham.”

But, despite the Latics sitting 21st in the League One standings, McLaughlin is still expecting another tricky test.

“We know this is definitely going to be a difficult game and we will have to make sure we’re on it,” said the Irishman.

“They’re fighting for their lives and have had some good results recently.

“We’ve been told their pitch isn’t the best, but we’re used to that so playing at Roots Hall might actually help us!”

The Shrimpers will again be without defenders Rob Kiernan (knee) and John White (ankle) this weekend, while winger Michael Kightly (hamstring), midfielder Anthony Wordsworth (calf) and goalkeeper Ted Smith (shoulder) are still out.

However, fit-again midfielders Sam Mantom and Josh Wright are both back in contention after lining up for the under-23s against MK Dons at Roots Hall on Tuesday.