ALAN McCormack is excited to be back at Southend United and feels like he has never been away.

The 36-year-old midfielder made 166 appearances for the Shrimpers before leaving in 2010.

And the Irishman insisted he jumped at the chance to return to Roots Hall.

"It doesn’t feel like I’ve been away,” said McCormack.

"When I had a phone call with the manager I was getting more and more excited to come back and I’m delighted it’s done.

"I loved my time at this club before.

“I moved away to try and do something different and new in my life but I’m just thankful that I’m able to come back and van can hopefully make a difference here."

McCormack, who has signed a short term deal initially until January with Blues, has won promotion in his last three seasons.

And he is keen to help the younger players in Mark Molesley’s squad.

"I spoke to the manager on Tuesday evening and instantly the way he described things I got a really good feeling,” said McCormack.

"It’s a project he’s embarking on and he wanted me to be part of it.

“At my age and the youthfulness of the squad I felt like I could be a real asset.

"The club unfortunately came down a level last year, so that challenge of trying to get straight back up is a great one to have.”

McCormack’s drive and determination made a popular figure during his previous stint with the Shrimpers.

And he remains eager to succeed.

"I’m a winner by nature, I hate losing even if it’s against my six-year-old boy in the back garden playing two touch,” said McCormack.

"Pool, table-tennis, darts, you name it I hate losing, and that’s the nature I’ve always had about me.

"Come Saturday at 3 o’clock I’ll tend to raise up an extra 10-20 per cent and that will be the same this year."