SOUTHEND United’s winning run has created an unusual dilemma for boss Kevin Maher!

Blues head to Oldham Athletic tomorrow having triumphed in their past three matches.

And the good results have left Maher to question just what can be changed due to superstitious reasons.

“I was thinking about this the other day because I’m due a hair cut,” laughed Maher.

“You end up having routines and Daz (Currie) and Benno (Mark Bentley) are like that as well wearing shorts or not wearing shorts.

“You just keep your routine the same but there’s nothing that stands out too much when it comes to superstitions.

“I certainly don’t have any lucky pants or anything like that.”

Blues will hope to have luck on their side against the sixth placed Latics.

But Maher knows his side are in for another tough test at Boundary Park.

“The last couple of games have been good for confidence but we aren’t getting away,” said Maher.

“There are tough, tough games coming up during an intense period and that starts with Oldham.

“They’re up in the play-offs and they’re there for a reason.

“They’ve got some very good players and they’re well organised as well.

“It’s a tough game and we’ll have to be at our best to get a result."

Saturday's match will also see Maher up against his former team.

The 47-year-old made 32 appearances for the Latics during the 2008/09 season.

And he feels there are plenty of similarities between the two clubs who go head to head this weekend.

"I loved it there and met a lot of good people," said Maher.

"There are a similarities between Oldham and Southend actually.

"They're both big clubs with a great fanbase.

"I’m sure there will be a big crowd on Saturday and we’ll take loads as well so it makes a good atmosphere and a good game."

The Shrimpers have risen up to 13th in the table following the three straight wins.

But Maher is staying level headed and felt the same when his side sat just above the drop zone a couple of weeks ago.

“Fans want instant success and it’s part of the world at the minute," said Maher.

"It’s instantaneous stuff but it’s important for us to remain calm and know we’re working properly.

"Performances were good and not much needed to change.

"We still played well and created chances in the games we lost.

"We were towards the relegation zone not through of our doing it was because of the 10 points we got deducted.

"The players were the same players who went through a really, really difficult period at the start of the season and still turned up for the club every game.

"It was important we stayed backing them and believed in them which we always will."

Blues will now be aiming for a fourth win in a row this weekend.

And they will be up against a familiar face as they attempt to do so with Shaun Hobson again expected to line-up in defence for the hosts.

“They’ve brought in very good players and it will be good to see Hobbo again.

“It’s nice to see him playing and doing well so I’m pleased for him but that goes to one side on Saturday.

“They want to get out the league and they’re doing a good job at the minute.

“Micky (Mellon) has done a terrific job since he’s gone back in there which is no surprise given his experience and know-how within the game.