Tilson lent Hooper to the Bulls

Southend manager Steve Tilson hopes Hereford United will not have forgotten who loaned them Gary Hooper last season.

Hooper's successful loan spell at Edgar Street probably made the difference between Hereford United getting promotion or staying in League Two.

"Hereford come to Roots Hall for the first time in 18-years following their promotion from League Two last season," said Tilson.

"Hereford got promotion off the back of quite a few loan signings last season. They are finding it as tough as a lot of clubs are this year because it is going to be a difficult one to call this season.

"Your Leicester's and Leeds are expected to be up there but it is going to be tight, perhaps tighter than last year."

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