JACK Payne admits he was surprised to be dropped from Southend United’s starting line-up at Luton Town on Saturday.

The young midfielder was selected among the substitutes for the 2-0 defeat at Kenilworth Road.

But, after an impressive second half display, he hopes to have done enough to force his way back in to the side for Saturday’s clash against Exeter City at Roots Hall on Saturday.

“Hopefully I can start the next game and be a part of trying to put things right again,” said the 19-year-old.

“I actually thought I had done enough to stay in the side so I was a bit surprised to be left out to be honest but that’s football.

“I know the manager does everything for a reason and I just have to get on with it.

“I was obviously gutted but I wanted to make sure I reacted in the right way and I think I did so that’s good.”

However, Blues were already 2-0 down before Payne entered the action at half-time.

And the youngster, who came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall, found the first 45 minutes frustrating to watch.

“It was hard because I wanted to be playing and we didn’t really turn up,” said Payne.

“Nothing went to plan and the second goal we gave away was a bit of a shambles.

“Luton also have a good defensive record so it was always going to be difficult to get back in to the game after that.”

Payne did help Blues improve after the break.

But they were unable to get the goal they needed to get back in to the game.

“We tried to get an early goal and Luton sat back so I had some space to start with,” said Payne.

“However, they put two men behind everything to see it out.”