RICKY Holmes feels it is do or die for Southend United at Colchester tonight.

The second from bottom Shrimpers make the short trip to the Community Stadium one place and six points behind the Us’s with just four games to go.

And Holmes knows it is now or never in Blues’ bid to stay up.

“It’s do or die for us, we know that,” said Holmes.

“We have to stay solid and then it’s up to us front four to get a goal.

“We’ve been getting chances but we have to start taking them because we’re running out of games.”

Holmes remains desperate to help Blues avoid a second successive relegation having grown up supporting his hometown club.

And the 33-year-old knows exactly how much this evening’s Essex derby will mean to Southend’s fans.

“I remember being in the away end at Layer Road cheering on the team myself so I know exactly what this game means,” said Holmes.

“I stood behind the goal there a couple of times so I can’t wait to play in the game myself now.

“There is so much riding on this particular game though, even if you took away that rivalry.

“But that makes it even more important. My only disappointment is that the fans can’t be there because it really would be some atmosphere.”

Holmes will be still bidding to please Blues’ fans watching on from home. And he is already relishing working with new Shrimpers boss Phil Brown who has been in charge for the past two games following the departure of Mark Molesley.

“He’s been brilliant, he’s right up my street,” said Holmes.

“He reminds me a lot of Chris Wilder and if you don’t work hard you don’t play.

“He wants full commitment and that’s what I’ve always given. I’ve enjoyed working with him and he’s put smiles on faces since coming in. The boys are buying into what he’s trying to do as well.”

Brown helped the Shrimpers produce an improved performance against Exeter City last time out. And Holmes also caught the eye in the 0-0 draw after being moved into more a central position.

“I loved it in there and it’s certainly not alien for me because I’ve played there a lot in my career at most clubs I’ve been at,” said the former Seevic College student.

“You do have to pass the ball if you’re playing with someone in the number 10 role and we managed to do that. I prefer it in there to be honest because you’re more involved in the action.

“You’re going in against the ugly six foot four defenders but if you compete you’ve got a chance.”

And Holmes was also encouraged by Saturday’s display at St James Park.

“We got the ball down a lot more and played proper football,” said Holmes.

“We created good chances against a very good team which bodes well for the remaining games.”