SOUTHEND United striker Tom Hopper is targeting promotion in his first season with the Shrimpers.

Hopper joined Blues in the summer following his release from Scunthorpe United.

But the 24-year-old will not be setting any individual goals.

“We want to get out of this league by getting promotion this season,” said Hopper.

“We all want to be successful and we all want promotions on our CV so that’s what we will be aiming for.

“I’ll obviously be doing all I can to help with that but I won’t be setting any individual targets.

“I’ve done that in the past and if you don’t reach them you’re on a downer.

“But I want to help the team, I want to get assists and I want to get goals too because I’m a striker and that’s what we’re there to do.”

Hopper netted at Roots Hall for Scunthorpe United last season and already feels settled in his new surroundings following a tough few days in pre-season training.

“I’m enjoying it here already, there’s a good group of lads and it’s been going well,” said Hopper.

“There’s no such thing as an easy pre-season but hopefully we will reap the rewards for it all later on in the season.

“We’ve worked hard and I’m enjoying it here.

“It’s a good move for me and it was I decided to make after hearing what the manager had to say and also Sam Mantom.

“He was on loan at Southend from Scunthorpe and when he came back he was singing everyone’s praises so that also made me want to join.”

Blues will step up their preparations when they travel to Great Wakering Rovers for their first pre-season friendly.

And Hopper is keen to get back onto the pitch.

“It’s that match sharpness you want so it will be good to get some minutes,” said the striker.

“It’s always good when the games start and we are looking forward to it.

“I think everyone is glad it’s kicking off early so we can watch the England game!”

And Hopper will be tracking one of England’s strikers closely.

“I was a young lad at Leicester and Jamie Vardy was there,” said Hopper.

“He was always happy to pass on some tips.”