Southend United defender Che Wilson is hoping to help the Shrimpers get one over his former Bristol Rovers side at the Memorial Stadium this evening.

Steve Tilson's in-form outfit visit the Pirates for the first leg of the LDV Vans Trophy area final and Wilson, who made 92 appearances in two seasons for Rovers, is desperate to see the Seasiders succeed.

"I know most of the players and fans wanted us to be drawn against Leyton Orient at this stage but I really wanted to play Rovers," said the 26-year-old.

"It's always nice to be up against your old team and I'm sure tonight will not be any different."

Having been both surprised and disappointed by his unexpected release from Rovers back in 2002, Wilson is also determined to produce a good performance against his old club.

"I had been a regular in the first team so to go from that to being told I wasn't wanted anymore was hard to take," said the former Norwich City defender.

"There was a change in manager and it was Ray Graydon who made the decision but I was out on a limb and it was disappointing."

Wilson had enjoyed his spell in the West Country, where he played alongside current Blues' team-mate Adam Barrett.

"It's a very big club and the fans are second to none there," he said.

"I had some good times there but we didn't do too well on the pitch and didn't do as well as we should."