ADAM Thompson insists he has never seen anything quite like the work-rate at Southend United.

And the defender feels that could help the Shrimpers spring an FA Cup surprise against Hull City at Roots Hall this weekend.

“You can be here at 7.30 in the morning and you will see people already in the gym and they will be first team players too,” said Thompson.

“I’ve been at other clubs where the young lads go in to the gym and work hard but once people get in to the first team they maybe ease off.

“That’s not the case here and I’ve never seen anything like it before.

“Those not in the team stay behind most days for extra running and I’ve definitely bought in to that philosophy.

“I think the manager certainly encourages it and I think that’s a major reason for the success we’re having.

“Hopefully it can help us this weekend as well.”

Thompson looks set to line up at right-back against the Tigers and he is relishing the chance of playing more regular first team football after being out of favour at Watford.

“I could have stayed at Watford and hidden behind the tag of being the Championship player but I wanted to get games,” said Thompson.

“I didn’t really consider myself as a Championship player anyway because I wasn’t actually playing.

“I don’t think I’m good enough for that level at the moment but I want to work my way up and I want to help Southend get in to League One which is where they should be.”