Chris Makin has been there, done it and got the t-shirt and knows what Saints must do to contain their nerves on Sunday.

The experienced full back, who won promotion to the top flight with Reading last season, is able to look upon the big game hype as just that.

Makin knows it's not so easy for the younger players but believes they will be fine once the game starts against Southend.

He said: "Everyone knows what it means - it's a massive game. You're thinking as a professional of keeping your mind on Sunday but look beyond at what else you can achieve.

"There is so much resting on Sunday's game for the fans, the club and the players. It's a massive week.

"I think there's nerves but in the build-up. Once you're out there you go out and do your job.

"In the build-up and the few days before you're thinking about it and you just want to get out there really".

He added: "It's not easy. You've got to try and play your normal game.

"If we train well this week and do the right things on Sunday, think about the job to do and for get about the crowd and concentrate on the performance and the job hopefully we'll win the match".

For the full interview, don't miss today's Daily Echo - including five pages of Saints v Southend previews and four pages of Alan Ball's memorial service coverage.