SOUTHEND United skipper Kevin Maher cannot wait to rekindle some of his favourite ever memories at Roots Hall on Monday night.

Maher skippered the Shrimpers to the League One title back in 2006.

And he is relishing the prospect of lining up alongside his former team-mates once again as Steve Tilson’s side reunite to face the Colchester United team that finished second that season in the Sid Broomfield Trophy.

“It’s going to be great and I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again,” said Maher.

“It was a special time and you would come in every single day looking forward to training because it was such an enjoyable time and everyone just got on so well.

“That was definitely the secret we had to our success because everyone was in it together and I think that’s what made the difference in the end.

“But because of that spirit I can’t wait to be part of it all again because it was probably those seasons we had were the best of my career and we’re all excited to be getting back together, especially as it’s all for such a great cause.”

Monday's match has been organised by Maher’s former Blues team-mate Adam Barrett and the Echo’s Shrimpers reporter Chris Phillips to raise money for Havens Hospices as part of their fundraising for the London Marathon.

Darryl Flahavan, Mark Gower, Freddy Eastwood and Steve Tilson will also be in attendance at Roots Hall

But Maher, who now coaches Blues’ under 23 side, is not sure how the game will go.

“I’m not quite sure what everyone’s fitness levels will be like now,” laughed Maher, who made more than 450 appearances for the Shrimpers.

“We’re definitely not as fit as we used to be but it will be a fun night because it was such a great group.

“We demanded a lot of each other but any problems that came up were sorted out in the dressing room and then completely forgotten about.

“They were great days for everyone connected with the club and this match will bring back some great memories.

Monday's match kicks off at 7.30pm with tickets - priced £5 for adults and £1 concessions - available to buy on the night.

Close to 1,000 tickets have already been sold.