Southend United's new boy Tommy Black insists the Shrimpers must be pushing for a place in the play-offs this season.

The winger - who recently joined the Roots Hall club on a free transfer - has settled in well at his new surroundings.

And he is already aiming to be part of a successful campaign.

"The three clubs that came down from the Championship should do well this year - along with Nottingham Forest," said Black.

"It is definitely realistic for us to finish in the top six and if we don't then I don't think it will have been a good year for us."

Black will also be looking to make an positive impression following a frustrating campaign with Crystal Palace last year.

"I want to try and get going again," said Black who spent a month on loan at Bradford City during the previous campaign.

"I've had injuries and fallen out with managers at Palace but that's part and parcel of football."

Black played on both flanks and through the middle during his seven year stint with Palace.

But he also spent time out on loan with a handful of clubs including Gillingham.

While with the Gills - in April 2006 - he bagged the only goal in the Kent side's 1-0 win at Roots Hall.

And he is now determined to add to that strike.

"I remember that well," recalled Black.

"Hopefully now I can get a few more at the other end for Southend."

>Southend United have yet to decide whether to risk defender Lewis Hunt at Witham Town on Saturday.

The right back underwent ankle surgery at the end of last season.

But he has looked strong during pre-season training.

"Lewis has joined in with everything so far but like you would expect he's a little bit sore," confirmed manager Steve Tilson.

"When it's come to ball work it has been non contact with him because we don't want to risk him getting hurt.

"And we have yet to decide whether to play him on Saturday.

"We shall be leaving that until the very last minute."