SOUTHEND United skipper John White is backing the Shrimpers to bounce back strongly from Saturday’s FA Cup defeat to Chester.

Phil Brown’s side were seen off 2-1 by the Conference club at Roots Hall.

But White is confident Blues can react in the right manner and remain in the top seven of League Two.

“It was very disappointing to lose on Saturday and to exit the FA Cup at such an early stage but it’s all about making sure we bounce back straight away,” said the 28-year-old.

“It was a horrible feeling at the end of the game but we need to draw a line in the sand under what’s happened now.

“We need to put it behind us and look forward not back.

“We only have the league to focus on now but we want to get a good run going and we all think we can.”

However, for that to happen, White is fully aware that the Shrimpers will need to improve at both ends of the pitch.

The Shrimpers have triumphed just once in their last seven outings and have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of those games.

Nine goals have also been conceded during that time, while just five have been scored.

And White is keen for Blues to be far better in both boxes.

“We need to be far more resolute at the back and, as a team, we need to be making sure we take more of the chances coming our way,” said the defender.

“That’s what we need to put right but we’re still in a good position in the league and we want it to stay that way.

“It’s a big game coming up against Hartlepool United on Saturday now but the boys are training well and we can’t wait to get back there to get back on track.”