RYAN Inniss is determined to prove himself at Southend United - starting with tonight’s clash at Peterborough.

The towering centre-back is favourite to replace the injured Anton Ferdinand at the heart of the Shrimpers’ back four.

And the on loan Crystal Palace defender is eager to impress in what looks set to be his first start since dislocating his shoulder against Millwall in early November.

“After I went back to Palace for treatment the lads started to do great so I’m almost coming in having to prove myself again,” said Inniss, who made six appearances for Blues before getting injured.

“The lads have been great with me but I want to try and take any opportunity that comes my way now.

“If I get the nod tonight then I’ll be ready and the aim is to try and get a run of games because I want to be seen as reliable.

“When I’m out there, everyone knows I’ll run through brick walls but it’s just how long I’m going to last.

“I also want to try and repay the manager here for keeping me around.”

Inniss - who has been dogged by injury setbacks throughout his career - played the final 21 minutes in place of the injured Ferdinand in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Northampton Town.

And he is thrilled to be back in action.

“It’s been a long time coming for me and it’s been tough so it was good to get back out there,” said the 21-year-old.

“My shoulder feels fine again and I’m feeling strong.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to help the lads continue this good run and we feel as though we can turn over any team in the league at the moment.

“We’re a big scalp for our opponents and we’re expecting a tough test against Peterborough.

“They’re a good footballing team but we can pass the ball as well as mixing it up so we’ll be looking to go there and win.”