SOUTHEND United’s clash with Barnet at Roots Hall will rekindle the happiest of memories for former Shrimpers favourite Bilel Mohsni.

Back in 2012, the Frenchman scored all of Blues’ goals in a 3-0 win against Bees.

And it is an evening Mohsni still remembers with great fondness.

“I remember the hat-trick, it was the only one I’ve ever got,” said Mohsni.

“The goals were all in the first half I think and it was a fantastic moment.

“Every time you score a goal it’s the best moment in football so to get three was amazing. It was one of my best moments and we still have the ball, I gave it to my brother.”

However, Mohsni’s hat-trick was just one of many memorable moments during his eventful spell in Essex.

The 34-year-old made 80 appearances between 2010 and 2013 for the Shrimpers.

And he remembers his spell at Roots Hall with real fondness.

“I had a fantastic time at Southend,” said Mohsni.

“It was my first club in the UK and I had a very good welcome. I learnt English with my team-mates and it was fantastic.

“I played defence, midfield, winger and striker and I learnt a lot.”

After leaving Blues, Mohsni went on to play for a number of clubs, including Rangers.

But he was in talks to come back to Southend last season.

“I wanted to come back and maybe the chairman wanted me too but he’s not the manager,” said Mohsni.

“Maybe the manager didn’t know me so it wasn’t really perfect timing.

“I would’ve been happy to come down after cancelling my contract with Grimsby but it didn’t happen so I went to Barnet.”

Mohsni played three times for the Bees before heading out to play in Saudi Arabia.

But he is now on the look-out for a new club and admits he may end up having to retire.

“I’d like to come back to the UK,” said Mohsni.

“That would be good but I don’t know where I will end up.

“I’m 34 now and teams want young centre-backs now so they look at you like you’re 54.

“Football is more like a business now and more abount money.

“I’m match fit but maybe it’s the end of me playing now.

“I don’t know what will happen.”

However, Mohsni still maintains a big interest in football and will be tracking Blues’ match this evening.

“I have the Livescore app on my phone and I look at the Southend score every time they play,” said Mohsni.

“I was sad they went to the Conference.

“I remember the chairman had big dreams of a new stadium and going to the Championship.

“It’s going to be difficult and it’s sad to see Southend where they are but I wish everyone there well.”