SOUTHEND United new boy Sam McQueen cannot wait to start his first ever loan spell when Coventry City visit Roots Hall on Saturday.

As was revealed in today’s Echosport, the 20-year-old has teamed up with the Shrimpers from Southampton until the end of the season.

And the winger is excited by the prospect of playing League One football with Blues.

“As good as under 21 football is you want to be pushing yourself and progressing and the next step for me is to be playing first team football,” said McQueen.

“I have the opportunity to do that here and it’s a very good first game to be involved in because Coventry are also a big club.

“It should be a good contest and it’s an opportunity for the team to get a win after some tough games recently.”

McQueen has been with Southampton since the age of eight but has made just one substitute appearance for their first team.

As a result, he jumped at the chance to team up with the Shrimpers.

And he is determined to make a good impression in League One.

“This is my first loan move but I feel as though I’m ready for it,” said McQueen.

“I’ve already had a good chat with the manager about what he expects from his players and what he expects from me as well.

“I’ll certainly be looking to get in plenty crosses and shots because assists and goals is what I’m here to do to help the team get good results and hopefully back to back promotions.”

FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S ECHO