LEE Sawyer is thrilled to have returned to Roots Hall.

The 19-year-old midfielder, who spent three months on loan with Southend United last season, is back with Blues for another temporary spell from Chelsea.

And the midfielder wishes he had never been away.

“When I left before I was really disappointed as I was enjoying my football,” said Sawyer.

“I had a great time here and I wanted to stay but that wasn’t possible but I’m glad to be back now.”

Sawyer could not stay with the Shrimpers last term due to Football League rules.

He went on to spend time on loan with both Coventry City and Wycombe Wanderers but it was with Southend that he performed best.

“The spell at Southend was the most successful and I played my best football,” said Sawyer.

“At Coventry I only played one game and then at Wycombe I started slowly but towards the end I found the form I had at Southend and now I am confident that I can come back and do that again. “Having been here before it makes things so much easier as I already know everyone and I am really happy to be back. Now I can’t wait for the season to get started.”

Sawyer played the second half for the Shrimpers in their 4-0 win over Canvey Island on Tuesday night. But it will take a few more friendlies for him to regain full fitness.

“I had nine weeks off over the summer and I have only been back in training a week but I’m feeling fresh,” said Sawyer.

“I hadn’t played since the start of May and I have really missed it, so it was good to get play at Canvey. At Chelsea I have a year left on my contract and this is a big season for me.”