Jack Payne says he’s excited about discovering new club Huddersfield Town’s 2016/17 fixture schedule.

The former Southend United midfielder doesn’t have long to wait, with the list revealed at 9.00am on Wednesday morning.

Payne, who has signed a three-year deal (Town have the option of adding a further 12 months), said: “It’s always a good day.

“It means the new season is getting closer and it helps focus your mind for the return to work.

“It’s great to think I’ll have the chance to play against the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Norwich City.

“Last season I was watching them on television. This time I hope to be facing them.”

Payne, 21, has played 88 times for Southend, helping them win promotion to League I in 2014.

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“I have had a brilliant time there and I am grateful to be club for the opportunities they gave me,” he added.

“But I feel the time is right for me to step up a level and I am hungry to play at Championship level.”