SOUTHEND United youngster Charlie Kelman is keen to kick on from a memorable summer.

The 16-year-old striker spent 12 days with the USA’s under-18 side in Kansas.

And the Wickford-based Kelman - who scored in his only appearance while away - hopes his spell abroad will help him during the season ahead.

“I’ve not really had any time off this summer so my fitness is still really good and hopefully that will help me,” said Kelman, who qualifies to play for the USA through his father.

“It was a good experience for me going out there and it was something different too.

“The facilities were amazing and the people were really nice too, so I really enjoyed it.

“I was pleased to score in our game against Sporting Kansas and I spoke to the manager before I left, who said I should expect another call back for a tournament soon, which would be great.”

However, Kelman now wants to impress far closer to home.

And the striker - who bagged 61 goals last season - has set himself a big target.

“My aim is to work harder than anyone else here and be the last one to leave every day,” said Kelman.

“But hopefully I will have played in the first team before I have my 17th birthday.”