SOUTHEND United’s Luke O’Neill cannot wait for the start of a hectic spell of fixtures for the Shrimpers.

Tomorrow’s clash at Scunthorpe United is the first of six games in just 22 days for Phil Brown’s side.

But that does not concern the in-form O’Neill who will be heading back to one of his former clubs this weekend.

“I want the games to be coming thick and fast, especially when we’re doing well so we can’t wait for Saturday,” said the 24-year-old.

“We’re doing really well and we want to keep it going.

“We’ve got a strong group here, the boys feel confident and we’re looking forward to Saturday and trying to get another good result.”

Seventh placed Blues have triumphed in their last three games and will be looking to keep the good run going against Scunthorpe.

But O’Neill, who is currently enjoying his longest run in the starting line-up as a Southend player, is expecting a tough test at Glanford Park.

“Scunthorpe are a strong team with some good players but if we stick to the game plan and play the way we have been then I’m sure we can get a good result,” said the full-back.

“It will be go for me to go back there as well because I had a good spell there a couple of years ago and I really enjoyed it.

“There was a possibility I was going to stay but then I signed a new deal at Burnley so it didn’t happen and I’m obviously very happy to be at Southend now.”

Blues have strikers Noel Hunt and Jamar Loza available again this weekend along with winger Stephen McLaughlin.

And Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is confident Adam Thompson and Sam McQueen will both be fit to play, despite having picked up slight knocks in last Saturday’s 3-o win against Colchester.

“Tommo has hamstring and thigh problems and he’s playing through the pain but he should be OK,” said the Blues boss.

“Sam McQueen also had an ankle problem but went back to his parent club Southampton for a scan which came back all clear and fingers crossed he’s fine and will train again today.

“Ben Coker is also back in training and Myles Weston and John White aren’t far off either so we’re not short of options.”

Michael Timlin also returns to the squad after completing a one match suspension but Ryan Leonard will be missing with a knee injury.