SAM Knock is targeting a season of success after being named Southend United’s new youth team captain.

The highly-rated defender - who is from Billericay - will wear the armband for the young Shrimpers side this term.

And the 17-year-old is determined to make it a campaign to remember.

“With our squad, we have the ability to play some really good football on the floor and we want to be pushing to win the league,” said Knock.

“The last couple of years we haven’t done so well in the FA Youth Cup so it would be good if we could have a bit of a run in that too.”

But Knock - who played for Concord Rangers and Hornchurch before Blues in the under-15s - is also keen to progress on a personal level.

“We all want the team to do well but we have our own individual targets too and mine is to try and get another contract and to also be in and around the under-23 squad if possible,” said Knock.

“That’s what I’ll be aiming for and will be working hard to try and achieve.”

Knock will also be working towards those ambitions while wearing the captain’s armband for Blues.

And the defender was delighted to be given the extra responsibility.

“I was proud when I was asked to be the captain,” said Knock.

“I’ve always tried to do what I can to help others and to be a leader, so I’m pleased to be the captain.

“I’ll be doing all I can to help the team in that role too.”

The Shrimpers’ under-18 side made a successful start to their season at the weekend, with goals from Matt Rush and Charlie Kelman securing a 2-1 win at Barnet.

Knock was forced to miss the game with an ankle injury but does not expect to be out for long.

“I should be back in training in about a week and I’ll be ready to push on after that,” said Knock.

“I injured my ankle in a pre-season game for the under-23s against Aveley but I shouldn’t be out for very long, which is good.”

Knock will then be ready to push for a place in Blues’ starting line-up.

And the Shrimpers’ academy manager Ricky Duncan will be pleased to see the skipper back in action.

“Sam’s a really good kid and he’s been with us for a while now too,” said Duncan.

“He’s a really steady influence on the group and the team and he will be a good captain.

“He’s had a couple of injury setbacks since being here but it will be good to have him back.”