SOUTHEND United’s Stephen McLaughlin will be out to impress when the Shrimpers take on West Ham United tomorrow.

The Irish winger suffered a series of injury setbacks last season.

But, after working tirelessly throughout the summer to regain full fitness, McLaughlin is now desperate to prove his worth during the remainder of Blues’ pre-season.

“Last season was disappointing for me and I certainly didn’t need a rest after it because I didn’t play much, so I’ve been working really hard all summer and not really had a break,” said McLaughlin.

“I’ve played in the last couple of games and it’s been going really well.

“This is an important time of year for me because I want to get a good base of fitness and I want to be able to show the Southend fans what I can do again.

“I never really got the chance to do that last season because of my injuries.

“They’re part and parcel of football but it was obviously really frustrating for me and now I want to be able to enjoy a much better season this year.

“The pre-season games are important for me because of that and I hope to be able to get more minutes under my belt against West Ham.”

McLaughlin made just 10 starts for the Shrimpers last season but has figured in their last two pre-season friendlies.

The 26-year-old also netted in Blues’ 6-1 win against FC Rincon on Wednesday night.

And he believes the trip to Spain has been hugely beneficial for the squad.

“Coming away like this has been really good for us all,” said McLaughlin.

“We’ve got a lot of good work done and I think we’re in good shape for the start of the season now.”

The Shrimpers will now continue their preparations against West Ham’s under-21 team this weekend.

And the game will again see McLaughlin line up alongside his close friend Ronan Murray, who is currently on trial at Roots Hall.

“Ronan is one of my best mates, so it’s been great to have him in but he’s been doing really well too,” said McLaughlin.

“The manager has said he brings something different to the squad and I think he’s a quality player. It would be great if something could be sorted out for him to stay because he’s been playing well but it’s down to the manager decide.”