SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell insisted beating Wigan Athletic meant more to him than making club history on Saturday.

Blues’ 3-1 win against the League One leaders at Roots Hall made Powell the first permanent boss to win his first three games in charge of the club.

But Powell was only concerned with collecting another three points.

“I was made aware of the record in the week but it doesn’t really mean too much, it’s all about this tough game and getting a very good win because that matters the most,” said the 48-year-old.

“We negotiated the match brilliantly and the players to a man stuck to what we spoke about when discussing the game plan.

“I’m really pleased with the three points although I’m disappointed we didn’t get a clean sheet because I wanted to build on the one we got against Peterborough.

“A team as good as Wigan will always test you and it’s a nice feeling to have won.

“But we don’t have a week to bask in the glory of this because we have an even bigger game on Tuesday at Bury and I’m already thinking about that one now.”

Powell helped the Shrimpers see off Scunthorpe United 3-2 in his first game in charge before also securing a 1-0 win at Peterborough United.

Goals from Michael Turner, Marc-Antoine Fortune and Michael Kightly made sure of a third successive win.

And Powell was again quick to praise his players.

“I look around my dressing room and see some very good players,” said the former England international.

“They were brave with and without the ball and they worked incredibly hard.

“I’ve been here just over two weeks now and I couldn’t really have asked for anymore but that’s exactly what I’ll be doing because that’s what I have to do.

“We’ve shown everyone we’re a good team but I certainly won’t be looking up or down the table.

“I’ll just be focusing on the next game which for us is Bury.”

The Shrimpers - who are now 14th in the League One standings - will be facing the Shakers full of confidence.

And Powell was also pleased to see the recalled Anton Ferdinand playing his part.

The experienced centre-back replaced the injured John White in the starting line-up and looked composed at the heart of the defence, despite not wearing the captain’s armband as Powell again selected Ben Coker as skipper.

“I’m very pleased for Anton,” said Powell.

“You have to take your opportunity when it arises and he produced a good performance when he came on at Peterborough and again today.

“He was very, very astute in his decision making and cleaned up a lot of chances they had.

“Anton has had a tough time personally and professionally. I’m sure people will ask about the captaincy but I just wanted him to concentrate on the football.”