WILL Atkinson knows Southend United must show they are ‘up for the fight’ when they host struggling Aldershot Town at Roots Hall tonight.

Atkinson looks set to make his first start of his second spell with the Shrimpers this evening.

And the energetic midfielder is keen to help Blues get back on track after Saturday’s dire 3-1 defeat at Halifax Town.

“We had the conversations yesterday and we all need to be better individually and collectively,” said Atkinson.

“It’s all well and good talking the talk but we have to go and prove it and show everyone we’re up for the fight.

“As a team we need to put a marker down, get a positive result and then go from there.”

Atkinson, who made 173 appearances during his first stint with the Shrimpers, returned to the club after four years away.

And the 32-year-old is ready to kick on after recovering from the calf injury he sustained when on trial during pre-season.

“It’s been slightly stop start after getting an injury in pre-season,” said Atkinson.

“It set me back a little bit but I feel like I’m getting there now.

“I got more minutes on Saturday and I’m feeling good.”

Atkinson played 39 minutes of the second half at the Shay and is still confident he can make a big impression for Blues in the National League this season.

“It’s been really enjoyable being back and I’m just looking forward to getting some games under my belt,” said Atkinson.

“I still feel young and fit in my body and mind.

“ I feel like I’ve got a lot to offer.”

Atkinson will be aiming to show that again this evening but he expects Aldershot to be tough to beat despite Danny Searle’s side having been beaten in all five of their matches so far this season.

“Aldershot won’t be an easy game by any stretch of the imagination and we have to make sure we’re on it,” added Atkinson.