MARCUS Bean is still a very popular man at Griffin Park.

But the former Brentford midfielder is willing to risk the wrath of the home fans by helping Colchester United to victory at his old club today.

Bean made more than 150 appearances for the west London club during a four-year period, where he became a firm favourite with the Bees supporters.

And the 27-year-old’s contribution has not been forgotten if his warm welcome prior to the U’s 1-0 defeat there in September, 2012 is anything to go by.

Hammersmith-born Bean admits he still has a soft spot for Brentford.

But at a ground where he was once a regular performer he is keen to enjoy success there with the U’s this weekend.

Bean said: “I’ve got an affinity with the club and the area and I grew up not far from there.

“It’s always nice to go back there and see a few friendly faces, although there’s been quite a lot of change since I was there.

“I was gutted for the players and the fans they didn’t go up last season, after they came so close. It can affect the confidence levels going into the next season.

“I’m not saying that it’s the only reason why some might say that their form hasn’t been great but I think it may have played a part.

“Griffin Park is always a tough place to go and the crowd are right on top of you.

“But we have a good away record and it’s important that we take the game to them and try to take advantage of any doubt that they may have.

“Some people might be expecting us to go there and lose but we should go there with no fear and we feel very confident about this game.”

Bean reached a significant milestone last weekend when he clocked up his 300th Football League appearance in the U’s 1-1 draw with Walsall.

“I didn’t realise until I got in the changing room and one of the guys pointed out to me that it was in the programme,” added Bean, who made his first U’s start since early September against Walsall.

“I don’t really keep up with the games to be honest – I just take every game as it comes.

“But it’s obviously a proud moment to do something you love, that so many other people out there would love to do.

“Every game is a blessing and I’ve really enjoyed every one. My aim is to try to stay in the team and play as many games as possible.”