MARK Milligan cannot wait to finally experience English football with Southend United.

The 33-year-old midfielder thought his chance to play in the country had come and gone after failing to obtain a Visa earlier on his career.

But Milligan now has the chance to line up in League One and he is excited to get underway this weekend.

“I’ve been presented with opportunities in the past but it never panned out due to Visas and things like that when I was younger,” said Milligan.

“But to be given this opportunity is exciting because I was resigned to the fact it wouldn’t really happen.

“Going to Scotland (with Hibernian) opened that door a little bit but I did think the time had passed.

“But, fortunately enough, I’m here now and I’m very happy about that.”

Milligan had been linked with Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Arsenal and Crystal Palace during his career.

However, it was speaking to chairman Ron Martin and manager Kevin Bond which eventually led to him signing for the Shrimpers to realise his ambition of playing in England.

“It was the chairman’s passion and Kevin’s as well which made me want to sign for Southend,” said Milligan.

“The chairman has been here a long time and he puts a lot into the club too.

“I spoke to Kevin about the club and what he wanted from me as well and that was enough for me to come down.

“I enjoy a challenge and this is a new one in my footballing journey.”

Milligan, who will captain Blues this season, has already enjoyed a number of memorable moments in his career and comes to Southend having played in the last four World Cups for Australia.

The 33-year-old has won 79 caps for his country and also enjoyed domestic success with Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory.

But the midfielder is confident of enjoying another good season with his new club.

“Pre-season is always tough but the team has been building well over the last couple of weeks I think,” said Milligan.

“We’re getting closer now to the season starting and it’s exciting.

“I think we will definitely be competitive.

“We have a young squad but you can see their willingness to work and learn.

“Kevin is trying to implement a lot in a short space of time but their ability to take things on board is good and that’s a positive.

“I think we will be more than competitive.”

Blues will get their season underway at the weekend with an away game against Coventry City.

But to make the week even more memorable for Milligan, he celebrates his 34th birthday on Sunday and is also excited for the start of the Ashes which get underway at Edgbaston on Thursday.

“I’ll definitely be watching the Ashes and it’s going to be good,” said Milligan.

“Plenty of people are already talking about it but I won’t say too much because I know a few of the boys.”