JERMAINE McGlashan is determined to prove his worth to Southend United in this Saturday’s clash with table-topping Sheffield United at Roots Hall.

McGlashan made his first League One start since October in Monday’s 0-0 draw at Swindon Town.

And the 28-year-old, who joined the Shrimpers in the summer, is now desperate to establish himself as a regular member of the side.

“When you come into the team you do all you can to stay in it and make sure you keep the shirt,” said McGlashan.

“That’s exactly what I’m doing at the moment but the competition for places here is fierce and you have to take your chance when it comes along.

“There’s no better game than one against the league leaders to show what you can do so it’s a match I’m really looking forward to.

“Roots Hall will be packed and I think the game is coming at a good time for us because we’re in really good form right now.”

The Shrimpers have not been beaten in their last 13 games and will be looking to keep the good run going against the Blades.

McGlashan again looks set to start in place of the injured Stephen McLaughlin and has no problems lining up down the left hand side.

“I’m equally as happy on the left as I am on the right,” said McGlashan.

“When you’re on the left you can cut inside more as well as taking your full-back on on the outside so I don’t mind playing there at all.

“I’m just happy to be back in the team and I’ve been working hard to make sure in the right shape to take it.

“I feel as though I have been doing really well in training and that’s probably why I’ve been given this chance now.”

McGlashan, who was with Gillingham last season, has made 14 appearances from the bench this term, more than any other player in the Shrimpers squad.

But he returned to the starting line-up at Swindon and felt the 0-0 draw was a fair reflection of the game.

“Both teams had chances to win it towards the end but I felt a draw was about right,” said McGlashan.

“I think it was hard going for the lads who played twice in three days and we weren’t able to take the chances that came our way.

“We will need to be more clinical against Sheffield United because they’re a very strong team but it’s a massive game and one we want to win.”

Blues head into the clash sitting seventh in the table.