FORMER Southend United defender Peter Clarke is still going strong at the age of 41.

The experienced centre-back, who made 150 appearances for Southend United between 2006 and 2009, has been with Saturday's opponents Oldham Athletic since the start of November.

And he is delighted to still be taking to the pitch, 22 years after first making his senior debut with Everton.

“As you grow a little bit more experienced in life, I’ll say that rather than older, you get wiser and really know what your body needs and doesn’t need,” explained Clarke.

“You become more aware of nutrition and hydration so there are loads of little things that go into it all.

“All of the little details add up and that’s part of the reason I’m still out there and still playing.

“There’s no secret to it but just lots of little things.”

Clarke has now made 903 club appearances in his career.

And he still has no idea when it will finally come to an end.

“I must have been asked this question for five or six years now,” laughed Clarke.

“I’ve never made any wild predictions and I don’t intend to start doing that either.

“I still enjoy playing and I love being out there competing.

“As long as I still feel fit and able I will carry on.”

Clarke has scored in his last two appearances for the Latics.

But he will not feature this weekend after being sent off against Gateshead in the FA Trophy last time out.

“Saturday is against my former side and somewhere I spent three years of my career and my life,” said Clarke.

“I’m looking forward to the game but it's frustrating I can't play.

"The suspension was supposed to be for the Wealdstone game but because that was called off it's now the Southend one.

“But both teams need the points for different reasons this weekend and that will make for a good game.”

Blues will head into the game at Boundary Park sitting sixth in the National League table while Oldham, who were relegated from League Two last term, are currently 20th in the standings just one place and two points above the relegation zone.

But Clarke is relishing being back with Oldham where he previously played between 2016 and 2019.

“It’s good to be back” said Clarke.

“I’m back in familiar territory which is nice and I can’t complain.

“I’m enjoying my football and look forward to every game.”

But this weekend will be extra special for Clarke as he faces a Southend side now bossed by his former Blues team-mate Kevin Maher.

“I’ve seen Kev at various points through the last few years and I’m delighted to see him go back to Southend as manager,” said Clarke.

“He’s one of those guys like Adam Barrett and Tilly (Steve Tilson) that when Southend United are mentioned you immediately associate them with.

“Kev is right up there at the top of the tree and I really wish them all the best for the season, just not on Saturday.”

Clarke partnered Maher in midfield when the Blues memorably beat Manchester United at Roots Hall back in 2006 but he is best remembered by Southend fans for scoring a late equaliser at Chelsea in 2009.