CHRIS Powell still believes in the magic of the FA Cup and is keen to sample it again with Southend United.

Powell, who led Charlton Athletic to the quarter-finals of the competition back in 2014, saw Blues beat Crawley Town in the first round.

And he is now determined to secure more success for the Shrimpers.

“People say the FA Cup is not what it was but try saying that if you’re drawn against a big side or progress through the round,” said Powell.

“It’s still special and I know what it can do for players’ confidence, the supporters and the club commercially.

“All of a sudden you could be playing a Premier League side and you’re suddenly getting interview requests from all over the world.

“When I was here as a player we had some great days at Everton, Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton and I would love for our players to sample that.

“It makes people aware of who we are but Barnsley are a good side so this is a tough tie.”

The Tykes are currently fifth in the League One standings.

But Blues will be facing them fresh from beating Scunthorpe United 2-0 on Tuesday night.

And Powell believes that was the perfect pick me up for his side.

“We really needed that win and performance,” said the 49-year-old.

“Confidence had been eroded by the League results but we’ve got ourselves going again and can look forward to the Barnsley game.”

The Shrimpers are expected to be without right-back Jason Demetriou, who picked up a knee problem against Scunthorpe.

But centre-back Michael Turner is available again after completing a three match suspension.