STEPHEN McLaughlin is keen to keep on using his head to help Southend United build on their ‘incredible’ 4-0 win against Gillingham.

The Irishman played a key part in the Shrimpers’ victory against the Gills with two assists and a goal.

And the winger was particularly pleased his latest effort came in the air.

“I should be scoring more headers so I was really pleased to get that one on Monday,” said McLaughlin.

“When I was playing back home in Ireland I used to score quite a few headers so I know it’s something I’m capable of doing and it’s something I want to do more regularly.

“This was just the second header I’ve got for Southend, with the other one coming against Stevenage in the play-offs.

“But hopefully there will be more to come now.”

McLaughlin’s effort was his 16th since signing for the Shrimpers, initially on loan in 2015.

And remarkably it was also the fifth game in succession he had netted against the Gills, meaning 31 per cent of strikes have now come against the Kent club.

“I couldn’t believe it when I scored against them again,” said McLaughlin.

“Everyone has teams they seem to do well against and my favourite just seems to be Gillingham.

“It was also the second home game in succession I’ve scored in so I was really pleased but the win made it extra special.”

McLaughlin’s header was one of four first half goals scored by the Shrimpers. And the winger was thrilled to see Blues bounce back from Good Friday’s 4-0 defeat at Plymouth Argyle.

“Friday was painful but we said we needed a reaction and everyone could see we got one,” said McLaughlin.

“The first half was unbelievable and I thought it was our best performance of the season. It was great to get the win, especially as we haven’ done too well against Gillingham lately.”

And McLaughlin is now hoping for another three points at Blackburn this weekend.

“They are an unbelievable side but we’ll be going there full of confidence now and the pressure is going to be on them,” he added.