SOUTHEND United’s Adam Thompson is more determined than ever to keep his place in the Shrimpers’ starting line-up.

The fit-again centre-back has been selected for Blues’ last two matches having previously spent seven months on the sidelines with a shoulder injury.

And Thompson is now desperate to find his very best form to ensure he stays in the side.

“I’ve had my time on the sidelines waiting for a chance and I hated it so I certainly don’t want to go back there,” said the 23-year-old.

“There are at least five of us going for two positions so I’ll be doing all I can to make sure I stay in the side.

“Being out for so long does make you appreciate playing even more and I’m buzzing to be back.

“But now it’s about making sure I play the best I possibly can and helping the team pick up good results so that I can stay in the team.”

Thompson had started 14 of Blues’ previous 15 games before suffering a dislocated shoulder against Mansfield Town in April.

The defender spent six months out of action and a further four weeks waiting for a recall.

But he has been delighted by how his body has responded to playing twice in the space of four days after such a long lay-off.

“I feel good and my fitness has definitely been helped by the two games,” said Thompson.

“They were both tough games and I did get a bit of cramp against Bristol Rovers which I guess was to be expected.

“There was a lot of defending to be done in the second half and there was against Sheffield United too.

“It was enjoyable to be a part of and, although there’s been a bit of tightness in one or two areas for me, I’ll be training today.

“I’ll be fine for Saturday’s game with Blackpool too and it’s another important match for us.”

Thompson will again be hoping to get the nod ahead of Cian Bolger, Glen Rea and Luke Prosser to start against the Seasiders.

And he is desperate to get the Shrimpers back to winning ways in League One.

“It’s a big game this weekend because we haven’t won for a while in the league now so that needs to change,” said Thompson.

“Blackpool were in a higher league last year so we need to respect them but if we can play like we can for the full 90 minutes then we can definitely get the three points.”