DAN Mooney wants a return to Altrincham to kick-start his and Southend United’s season this weekend.

The attacking midfield - who joined Blues from the Robins in the summer - has been hit by injuries setbacks during his first season at Roots Hall.

But the fit-again 23-year-old has now started two of the last three games and is determined to help the Shrimpers bounce back from a five match losing streak to end the campaign strongly.

“We want to start a run and end the season well,” said Mooney.

“We’re eight points below the play-offs but in this league I don’t think the gap is that big.

"You can play three games in a week and if they go your way you’ll be right back in amongst it.

"We’re focusing on getting a little run together and finishing strongly and I want to help with that too.”

Mooney has scored twice in 25 appearances for Blues so far this season. But he is eager to start making more of a contribution after regaining full fitness.

“I’ve picked up a few niggles throughout the season but I’ve started two of the last three and I’m building my fitness back up,” said Mooney.

“I want to get the games in. I’ve been in and out so hopefully I’ll get a run together now.

“I’d like to get a few more goals. I got an assist at the weekend so hopefully I can keep on helping the team close that gap. That’s certainly the aim.”

Altrincham will have other ideas this weekend. But Mooney is looking forward to facing his former team who he scored 13 goals for last season.

“It will be nice to see a few familiar faces and go back to where I started in the Conference,” said the midfielder.

“I thought it was brilliant there.

"They took me from Fleetwood when I wasn’t really enjoying my best football and gave me a chance to play the football I want to play.

"It’s a well run club and all the people there are quite nice but hopefully we can get the three points.”

However, Mooney knows Altrincham - who are 14th - will make it tough for the Shrimpers.

“They’ve got a few good players,” warned Mooney.

“They’ve lost a few but they’ve got a way of playing.

"They play good football and it will be a tricky game.

"But from what we’ve been working on hopefully we can go and get the three points.”

And Mooney - who played out wide when at Altrincham - has no qualms about being used in a more central position by Blues.

“As long as I’m on the pitch I’m happy.,” said Mooney.

“If the gaffer trusts me to put me in that position and thinks I can do a job there then I can do a job there and contribute to the team.”

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