SOUTHEND United winger Stephen McLaughlin will aim to win the battle between two of League One’s most creative players this weekend.

McLaughlin and former Blues midfielder Jack Payne, who is now on loan at Blackburn Rovers, are tied second for the most assists in the division.

But McLaughlin, who has made 12 goals for the Shrimpers this season, is keen to add to his tally tomorrow.

“I was pleased to get two assists and a goal in the last game against Gillingham and I would love to play a part in more goals this weekend to help us win the game,” said McLaughlin.

“Blackburn are a strong side and they’re having a good season but we’re going there on a high after the 4-0 win we had against Gillingham on Monday.”

Only Marcus Maddison has more assists than Payne and McLaughlin this season with the Peterborough United midfielder creating 16 goals for his team.