SOUTHEND United winger Kevan Hurst wants Saturday's goal against West Ham United to be the start of him rediscovering his best form for the Shrimpers.

Hurst fired Blues in front at Roots Hall before Phil Brown's side were eventually beaten 3-2.

And the 29-year-old is keen to keep on impressing as he bids to bounce back from a disappointing season.

"I've already forgotten about last year and I'm just focusing on the year ahead now," said Hurst.

"It was obviously great for the lads and the club to win promotion last year and I was really happy for everyone but for me personally it wasn't a great year.

"But I'm not one to give up and I'm confident of getting back to my best.

"I'm looking forward to the season ahead and I know it's a massive one for me."

Hurst was a huge hit for the Shrimpers during the 2013/14 season, scoring a career high 12 goals and having more assists than any other player in League Two.

But last term he hit the back of the net just once and made just 19 starts as niggling injuries hampered his progress.

However, Hurst showed signs of promise against the Hammers and was delighted to get back among the goals.

"The shot hit the centre-back on the way in but I was obviously pleased to score and hopefully I can add a few more this season now," said the winger.

"I wasn't sure whether or not I would be playing because I had been unwell and had to miss the Braintree match on Friday.

"But it was great to be back out there and now it's all about making sure I'm as fit as possible for the start of the season."

Hurst was joined on the score-sheet by Jack Payne but Blues were unable to come out on top as Hammers new boy Dimitri Payet bagged a brace before Shrimpers centre-back Luke Prosser netted an own goal.

But Southend boss Brown was still satisfied by the performance and now hopes to see Hurst beginning to impress on a more consistent basis.

"The first season I had with Kevan he was magnificent," said the Shrimpers chief.

"I think the moving on of Sean Clohessy and having a normal full-back behind him helped that to happen but all of a sudden he was hit and miss last year.

"He had niggles and injuries so it's a big year for him.

"He knows that and we've already had that chat.

"Come January I want him to be in the team and banging on my door for a new contract but we need to get him back to the form of the season before last."