Spinner speaks about return to the Hall

Last updated : 30 April 2009 By Shrimpers24

Spinner, who won four promotions during two seperate spells with the Shrimpers, now lives in Australia.

However, the defender will be back in his spiritual home next Tuesday May 5 for his benefit match with Derby County and is hoping to raise plenty of money for Little Havens Children's Hospice who'll be receiving a large percentage of the gate receipts.

He told the official site: "I'm looking forward to coming back to my hometown club again and, most importantly, raising money for an excellent charity," said Prior, who made 245 appearances while with Southend. "I did a bit of work with them before moving to Australia and my sister Kelly helps out there too. It's a very, very special place and I'm proud to have played a part in what they do. They need money to keep it going though and that's why I hope we can get a good crowd on Tuesday to make as much as we can for them."

Spinner was born in Southend and rose through the ranks at Roots Hall and is also looking forward to putting his boots back on. The 38-year-old enjoyed a tremendous career, playing for the likes of Norwich and Manchester City, as well as Derby.

And he remains proud of his achievements: "I was really lucky to have the career I have done because I was such an average player.I enjoyed almost all of it and did things that all young professionals dream of when they're starting out in the game. I played in the top-flight, in a Wembley cup-final, in Milan and Munich, plus Anfield and I won at Old Trafford too.

However, home is where the heart is: "It was brilliant and it was just as nice to start and finish my career with my hometown club, Southend and I can't wait to get back to see my many friends and familiar faces at the club. I've kept in touch with what's going on and I'm delighted the club is moving forward with the new stadium."

Tickets for the game, which includes the North Bank, cost £10 for adults, seniors and students and £2 for children. The game kicks off at 19.45.

Hospitality packages are also available for the match. Prices for executive suites, which are for 10 people, have been set at £350 plus VAT. For more details contact the club's commercial department on 01702 304133.