SOUTHEND United striker Billy Paynter is aiming to prove a point with the Shrimpers this season.

The tall target man suffered a torrid first campaign at Roots Hall last year following his £200,000 switch from Hull City.

But he is now determined to force his way back into Blues manager Steve Tilson's plans.

"I've spoken to the gaffer already and he has told me it's a fresh start for me again, which is what I wanted to hear," said Paynter who turns 23 next week.

"It's good to be back here again and I do feel like I have a point to prove at Southend."

Paynter made just 10 appearances for the Shrimpers last term before suffering a torn hamstring in the Carling Cup victory at Leeds United last October.

He subsequently struggled to get back into the side when fit and eventually ended up on loan at Bradford City.

With the Bantams he bagged four goals in 14 games and is now keen to show the Southend supporters his best form.

"I enjoyed my time with Bradford and it definitely helped me," said Paynter whose form was not enough to stop David Wetherall's team suffering relegation into League Two.

"I got to play 90 minutes which made a difference and I managed to get a couple of goals which was good for my confidence.

"Now I want to try and keep it going at Southend."

"Last year was frustrating for me, especially the hamstring injury because I felt things were starting to turn for me but that's the way things go sometimes.

"I'm looking forward not back and I want to try and get in the starting line-up and get a few goals for Southend this season."

Paynter will face strong competition for a place in the side though as Charlie MacDonald, Lee Bradbury, Richie Foran, Gary Hooper and Matt Harrold will also be striving for selection.

>Blues striker Hooper is back in training after recovering from a bout of tonsilitis.