JOHN White feels he could not have had a better send off at Southend United.

White – who has his testimonial match at Roots Hall on Sunday – was given a huge ovation in his final appearance for the Shrimpers last weekend.

And the 35-year-old said it was a moment he will never forget.

“It was spine-tingling and an incredible day,” said White.

“I’ve just been watching it back and hearing how early on the chants started for me was incredible.

“I never expected it and when things started to kick off around the 70th minute I was blown away.

“It was hard trying to keep it all together while sat on the bench and I had to keep sipping on my drink to make sure I did.

“I can’t thank the fans enough and I don’t think anyone could have asked for a better send off.

“It’s a special moment that will stick with me until the day I die.”

However White - who made 288 appearances for Blues during a nine-year spell - will also enjoy another memorable afternoon this Sunday.

A number of his former team-mates at both Southend and Colchester United will reunite for an Essex derby.

And White is relishing the prospect of being back alongside a number of familiar faces.

“I can’t wait now,” said the defender.

“It’s taken so much time to plan and it’s so nice that it’s just round the corner now.

“Hopefully everyone coming along will have a great time and we want it to be a fun filled day for everyone involved.

“It’s been announced now I’m not being retained and I’m not coming back next season but with the mixture of last Sunday and the one coming up I couldn’t ask for anything better.

“It’s been incredible.”

The Essex Charity Cup will be played before White’s testimonial, kicking off at 11.30am.

White’s match starts at 2pm with tickets available on the day