LEE Sawyer is closing in on a sensational return to Southend United.

And the midfielder insists an improved attitude will help him shine during his third spell with the club.

The 21-year-old, who will soon put pen to paper on a permanent deal with the League Two club after being released by Woking, has previously spent two loan spells with Blues from Premier League giants Chelsea.

But his last stint - at the start of the 2009/10 season - ended prematurely with a Southend spokesman citing another breach of discipline for his departure after he failed to attend a pre-match meeting.

However, Sawyer is adamant that his professionalism will no longer be a problem and he cannot wait to figure again for Southend.

"I'm so excited to be coming back to Roots Hall and can't wait to get everything sorted," said Sawyer.

"I've had a tough year since my last loan spell with Southend and being released by Chelsea but it was a real kick up the backside for me.

"I really knuckled down at Woking and worked hard and will be doing the same for Southend so I can show what I can do."

FULL EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW IN TUESDAY'S ECHO