SOUTHEND United striker Marc-Antoine Fortune felt his midweek brace against Bournemouth proved he is ready for a first team recall.

Fortune scored two goals in the Shrimpers’ 3-3 draw with the Cherries at Roots Hall.

But the Frenchman knows he may still have to wait for a starting slot in attack.

“Games like Bournemouth are ones you have to play when you’re not in the first team but I showed I was ready by working hard and scoring two goals,” said Fortune.

“The only disappointment was that we didn’t win the game but I’ve told the manager I’m ready to play whenever he wants.

“The team have been doing well so it’s going to be hard to get back in but I feel fit and it’s up to the manager when he wants to put me back in.

“I haven’t come here to sit on the bench and watch the team and I certainly haven’t come here for a holiday either.

“I want to be playing and the manager knows that.”

Fortune scored on his full Shrimpers debut against Leyton Orient in the Checkatrade Trophy but he has yet to start a league game.

The 35-year-old has made five appearances from the bench but is keen to prove his worth to the club as he strives to secure himself a longer contract at Roots Hall.

“I have a contract with Southend until January but every club I go to I want to stay as long as I can and it’s no different here,” said Fortune.

“I’m enjoying being at Southend and I’ve fitted in well but I just want to be getting more games now.”

Blues boss Phil Brown has opted to start with Nile Ranger and Simon Cox in attack for the past three games and Fortune is again likely to be on the bench for Saturday’s clash with Shrewsbury Town.