SOUTHEND United winger Kevan Hurst wants to end a frustrating season on a high by helping the Shrimpers secure promotion.

Hurst has struggled with his own form and fitness during an inconsistent campaign.

But the 29-year-old insists the team’s achievements matter more than his own and is desperate to help Blues triumph in the play-offs.

“It’s been an up and down season for me but if we win promotion then I will be smiling more than I did last year which was a good year for me personally,” said Hurst.

“Whenever I’ve felt as though I’ve been getting back to form I’ve picked up an injury which has been frustrating but we’re a tight knit group and I’ve been pleased to see the lads doing well.

“Last year I got a few goals and stuff but it’s not about individual success it’s a collective effort.

“We want to get promotion and if we could do that by winning at Wembley then it would be something none of us would ever forget.”

Blues’ forthcoming play-off campaign, which starts against Stevenage on Sunday, will be the third of Hurst’s career.

And he is therefore fully aware of the excitement the matches can generate.

“Play-off matches are different to any other games you play in,” said Hurst.

“They’re really exciting, the fans are always really up for them and I’m sure these matches will be no different.

“I really enjoy playing in these big games and the lads are really looking to getting out there again.”

But Hurst also knows the Shrimpers will have to dig deep in order to work their way past Stevenage.

“Stevenage are a good side so we will have to be on form to beat them but I’m confident we can,” said the winger.

“We lost at their place earlier on in the season but we played them off the park for about 75 minutes until they brought a couple of young lads off the bench.

“We’re fully aware of their threats and know it’s going to be hard but hopefully we can bring a lead back to Roots Hall for the second leg.”