DAVID Martin’s Southend United debut rekindled Roots Hall memories for the experienced goalkeeper.

Martin’s father Alvin was Blues boss in the late 1990s.

And the shot-stopper was thinking back to those times in the build up to making his first appearance for the club against Maidenhead United on Tuesday night.

“I remember I was up in the boxes there with my mum, my brother and my sister,” said Martin.

“We used to come to the games and it was tough time for dad in his life.

“It was a really, really tough two years and I was actually thinking about that driving in.

“I didn’t want to let him down and hopefully it’s done the Martins proud.”

In a further twist of fate it was also Alvin Martin who signed current Shrimpers chief Kevin Maher as a player, back in 1998.

“Kev was probably a bit dubious about signing me,” smiled Martin.

“But it’s all worked out and I’ve been lucky enough to train and help Collin (Andeng Ndi) too.

“I’ve got my hours in coaching and have been training at a good level.

“I felt like I’m ready to play.

“I’ve felt that for years but just haven’t had the chance.

“It was good to get it but now it’s all about the nice game.”

Martin’s clean sheet helped Blues beat Maidenhead 2-0 and the 37-year-old is again expected to start against AFC Fylde at Roots Hall on Saturday.