HARRY Crawford is loving being back in the plans of manager Paul Sturrock at Southend United.

The 18-year-old striker was sent out on loan to Blue Square South Dover Athletic at the start of the season after falling down the pecking order at Roots Hall.

But the youngster has now made Sturrock’s last five match-day squads and is determined to stay involved.

“My aim this season was to always try and be involved with the first team and it’s great that I’ve been able to do that lately,” said Crawford, who came through the youth team ranks at Blues.

“I started the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy game at Barnet which was really pleasing for me and hopefully more opportunities will come my way which I will obviously want to make the most of.”

Crawford did his claims for a first team slot no harm at all with two goals for Blues’ reserves in Tuesday’s 3-3 draw with Ipswich Town at Roots Hall.

And the forward was delighted to hit the back of the net.

“It was really good to get the two goals and it has really boosted my confidence,” said Crawford.

“I hadn’t played 90 minutes for a little while either so it was important to do that and it was a good afternoon for me.

“We also showed great spirit to come back and draw the game with two late goals so it was a good day for the team as well.”

FULL STORY IN THURSDAY'S ECHO