SIMON Francis is hoping his versatility can help the Shrimpers triumph at Swindon Town this Saturday.

The 23-year-old, who normally figures at right back, had been playing in the centre of the defence before switching to the right wing last weekend for the narrow 1-0 win over Bristol Rovers.

And he again looks set to continue that role at the County Ground.

“I don’t know of many players who have gone from centre-back to right wing but I don’t mind,” said Francis.

“I’ve always been a versatile player during my career and it must help the manager having someone who can do a job in a few different positions.

“As you get older you would ideally want to just figure in one role but I just want to be in the team and I don’t mind where I actually play to be honest.”

Francis’ fine crossing talents and ability to attack should make him succeed in his latest position on the right flank. And he admits to enjoying playing further forward.

“Even when I’m playing right back I like to attack and get forward,” said Francis.

“This way I don’t have to worry so much about the defending side of things and hopefully I can start to make a few goals and score some myself.”

Francis bagged the only goal of the game as Blues triumphed 1-0 at Swindon last season and he is hoping for a repeat this weekend as his side seek attempt to secure another good result against the Robins.

“I think it’s a winnable game for us and we really want another three points,” he said.

“Last season we got a good win there so hopefully we can go and do the same again to improve the position we’re in.

“It was frustrating to have Tuesday night’s game with Scunthorpe called off half an hour into our warm-up but we did well to beat Bristol Rovers.

“That’s given us a lift and we want to go on from here and keep doing well so we can get further away from the teams below us.”

Saturday’s clash will also see Francis up against his close friend and former Shrimpers team-mate Billy Paynter, and he is determined to come out on top.

“It will be good to see Bill again,” he said.

“We’ve been texting each other ahead of the game but at the moment he’s only been pestering me for a programme from our game with Chelsea.

“Knowing him he probably wants to sell it but I’ll ring him tomorrow to speak about the match and hopefully it will be us coming out on top.”