TOM Hopper is keen to keep on being nuisance for Southend United.

The striker could become the first Shrimpers striker since Freddy Eastwood in 2013 to score three goals in the first four League games of the season if he nets at Luton Town tonight.

And the summer signing remains determined to give opposing defenders a tough time.

“Defenders have it easy when everything is in front of them and they can see everything so I try and ask them questions,” said Hopper.

“It’s part and parcel of the position and you have to put yourself about.

“Hopefully I’ll get a few more goals but I’ll be helping the team anyway I can either through goals, assists or just by being a nuisance.”

Hopper netted in the 3-2 defeat against Doncaster Rovers on the opening day of the League One season before also hitting the back of the net in Saturday’s 2-0 win against Bradford City.

And scoring twice in quick succession has been a big help for the 24-year-old.

“Scoring early on has settled me down and it’s settled my tensions down too,” said Hopper, who joined Blues after being released by Scunthorpe United.

“It’s always nice to get off the mark in the first game and it was good to follow that up against Bradford.

“But getting the three points mattered the most.”

Blues’ well-deserved win against Bradford was their first of the season.

However, Hopper had always been confident the Shrimpers would kick-start their season.

“That was coming with the performances we’d been having but we’re delighted to get the monkey off our back in some respects,” said the forward.

“We’ve been playing well and we haven’t really been feeling pressure because of those performances.”

The Shrimpers will now be bidding to build on the victory when they head to Luton Town tonight.

But Hopper is expecting a tricky evening against the Hatters who were promoted from League Two last season.

“It will be another tough game and we have to forget all about Saturday,” said Hopper.

“Our full focus will be on Luton and we’re looking forward to it even though it’s a tough place to go.”