JACK Payne knows what it takes to succeed at Roots Hall, but tomorrow will be the first time he is hoping for an away win.

The midfielder has fond memories of Oxford United visiting Southend United, having scored his first league goal for the Shrimpers in 2014.

It earned a 1-1 draw which is actually a highlight for the U’s, who have lost on their six other league visits since 2003.

And Phil Brown’s side will be confident of extending that strong run, as one of only two teams in Sky Bet League One with an unbeaten home record this season.

It came as little surprise to Payne, who made 88 appearances for the club before leaving in 2016.

He said: “Southend have always been good at home.

“The ground’s really tight and the fans are up for it.

“Southend take pride from being at home and I think the way the manager sets up away is maybe a bit different to how he does at home.

“I think they’re a lot more solid at home and feel more comfortable there.

“It’s a hard one to put your finger on, but it just seems to be a place no-one really likes to go.”

He added: “They do well for a reason, but it’s not like they win every game.

“They’ve lost a lot of (away) games this season, so there’s obviously weaknesses there we’ve got to exploit.

“It’s definitely there for the taking.”

Payne is hoping to be given a friendly welcome for the home fans in what is his first return.

He said: “I’d like to think I’ll get a good reception. I’ve only got fond memories there.

“Obviously I got promoted with them and I feel like I left on decent terms.”

Southend were in the mix to sign Payne when Huddersfield Town made him available for loan this summer.

But the U’s were always in pole position – and it has proved a great move with six goals plus a dozen assists in all competitions.

He said: “In football it’s good to get new experiences.

“To be honest, the way Oxford play probably suits me more than the way Southend play.

“It just made more sense to come here, they were more keen.

“I did speak to Southend very briefly, but Oxford just made a lot more sense in every way.

“I’m happy.”