JACK Bridge is keen to start making a name for himself at Southend United.

The highly-rated midfielder made his Shrimpers debut as a second half substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Bradford City at Roots Hall.

And the 20-year-old is now desperate to kick on and earn more opportunities with his home-town club.

“I’ve been at the club since the age of nine so it was really good to get out there and make my debut because it’s something I’ve been working towards for a very long time,” said Bridge.

“It was a great experience for me but now I want to kick on and enjoy even more days like Saturday.

“It’s given me a taste of what it’s like and now I want more so hopefully next season can be the one I can make a name for myself.”

Bridge has long been highly-rated in the Shrimpers youth set-up but has had to wait patiently to be handed an opportunity.

That resulted in a second loan spell with National League South side Chelmsford City where Bridge shone on a regular basis.

And he believes lining up for the Clarets was the perfect way for his game to develop.

“It was a really good loan spell for me and playing men’s football was exactly what I needed,” said the former Eastwood School pupil.

“It set me up for the first team here and, although it was really disappointing not to win, I was just so happy and excited to get on the pitch.”

Adding to Bridge’s excitement was the fact he also grew up supporting the Shrimpers.

But he was slightly nervous before stepping onto the pitch.

“There was a lot of excitement and a few nerves because I only live round the corner and this is the first place I ever watched a game as well so it’s special for me to play for Southend,” said Bridge.

“My parents were here along with my cousins and a few of my mates so it was nice to see them at the end of the game as well.”

Bridge, whose current contract expires at the end of the season, remains in talks about a new deal.

And Blues boss Phil Brown has high hopes for the attacking midfielder who he believes could replace Jack Payne in the team next season.

“Jack has a two year deal on the table and I think he could come through and be the next Jack Payne,” said Brown.

“He’s a different style of player to Jack but he can dribble his way around the pitch very comfortably.

“He can create in a number 10 role and is a very dangerous player.”