SOUTHEND United midfielder Merrick James-Lewis heads back to Braintree Town tonight determined to display the improved attitude he hopes can make him a success this season.

The 19-year-old, who spent time on loan with the Iron last term, has been given a second chance by Blues boss Paul Sturrock after often frustrating him last term.

And James-Lewis is therefore eager to continue his impressive pre-season form.

“This is a big season for me and I know that I needed to improve my attitude if I was going to play and that’s what I’m trying hard to do,” said James-Lewis.

“I kept on having to have meetings with the manager last season and I know I let him down.

“But he’s decided to give me a second chance which I’m grateful for and I’m really going to do everything I can to make sure I take it.

“I worked really hard in the gym during the summer to make myself stronger because that’s something else I needed to do and hopefully that can also help me do well this year.

“I’m pleased with how pre-season is going and hopefully tonight at Braintree will go well too.”

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO