HAVING survived a goalkeeping type X Factor selection at the start of the season, Rhys Evans is thrilled to finally be rebuilding his career with Southend United.

The 29-year-old shot-stopper has started the last eight games between the sticks.

And he is now keen to keep his place in the team.

“It’s goes without saying that I’m pleased to be in the team and I think I’m getting close to my best now,” said Evans, who was given his chance in the side after previous number one Glenn Morris picked up a flu virus.

“I just needed a run of game which is now what I’ve been given but I’m not getting carried away and I’m only approaching it on a game by game basis.”

Evans arrived at Roots Hall from Bristol Rovers on a free transfer last summer, But, prior to that, he had been a regular for Bradford City and most of the other clubs he had also been with.

“Up until two years ago I had played the majority of games for the clubs I’d been at,” said Evans, who lives with team-mate Chris Barker.

“I played 49 games in a season for Bradford but I didn’t really get many chances for Bristol Rovers and I didn’t really feel believed in either.

“I think people are now seeing me trying to rebuild my career and I’m just pleased to have been given a chance.

“It’s hard to get a contract as a keeper these days because lower league clubs are getting youngsters in on loan from the Premier League.

“At Southend in the summer it was also like a goalkeeping X factor competition as we had different people in every day but thankfully I got a deal and I’ve really enjoyed it here.

“I just needed to be playing more and that’s happening now.”

Evans’ next appearance will come at Morecambe this weekend.

And he recovered well since being criticised for conceding two goals against Cheltenham Town at the start of January.

“I’ve watched those goals closely and I think some of the things that were written and said about me were unfair,” said Evans.

“It disappointed me at the time but it’s in the past and, hopefully come the end of the season, that will just be a blip in what can be a good season.”

FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S ECHO