MICHAEL Klass will face his former Southend United side this weekend hungry to make the most of every opportunity coming his way.

Klass – who left the Shrimpers in 2021 – is now rebuilding his career with Aldershot having spent last season with Isthmian Premier League side Lewes.

And the 23-year-old midfielder is determined to ensure he continues to progress in the right direction.

“Lewes wasn’t the level I wanted to play at ideally but it was important for me to go and play regularly somewhere,” said Klass.

“I wanted to get the love and enjoyment back for football too.

“It was important because up until that stage I hadn’t really played week in, week out and had always been a bit in and out.

“But seeing what it was like down there has given me more hunger to not end up back there again.

“I have to stay focused and push on and long term my aim is to get back into the league.”

Klass lined up in both League One and League Two while with the Shrimpers who he joined in 2017.

The midfielder made 17 first team appearances while with Blues but has mixed memories of his spell at the club.

“Southend had its up and its downs for me like anywhere would really,” said Klass.

“It taught me so much and it moulded me into the player and the person I am today.

“It was up and down in terms of playing and of course I wish I could’ve played more.

“But when I did get a chance it was amazing to play at Southend.”

However, Klass will be playing against the Shrimpers on Saturday at the EBB Stadium.

And he is expecting a difficult afternoon against Kevin Maher’s side.

“It’s going to be tough,” said Klass.

“Southend are doing well and Kev is a good manager.

“He was my under 23 coach at Southend and when I saw he was going back I was happy for him and knew he would be the right man they needed at that time.

“They’re doing well now and it will be a tough match.

“I think they’re one of the best teams in the league so it will be exciting to play them but it’s going to be tough as well.”

Another of Klass’ former managers – Mark Molesley – signed the midfielder before the start of the season after he had impressed while on trial.

However, Molesley has since departed and Klass has now found more first team opportunities coming his way It’s been a bit stop start so far,” said Klass on his time with Aldershot.

“I had to go out on loan to get some fitness and some games but in the last five games or so it’s been better.

“I’ve been playing more and we’ve had a few games where we’ve done quite well.

“Personally it’s been good and I’m enjoying being back in full-time football.

“But I want to try and get in the team and then fully kick on again from there.”

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