SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown feels the release of his side's fixtures has given everyone 'something to aim for.'

The Shrimpers will head to King's Lynn Town on the opening day of the National League season next month.

And Brown cannot wait to get started as Blues bid to bounce back from two successive relegations.

"The fixture list always gives you something to aim for," said Brown.

"It has to be said that the lockdown has been hard for everyone with regards to football.

"The Euros has given everyone a boost and now the fixture list has given people something to get their teeth into as well.

"It's always an exciting time but of course it's disappointing we find ourselves in the fifth tier of English football."

And, lining up in non-league, Blues must adjust to starting their season a few weeks later than they have previously been used to.

"It's a late start for us towards the end of August but we have to get on with it and deal with it," said Brown.

"There will be some new venues and some new teams I haven't played against.

"The first of those will be King's Lynn on the opening day and I'm looking forward to some new challenges."