Echo:

HARRY Kyprianou is plotting another season of progress at Southend United.

The centre-back made 15 appearances for the Shrimpers last term.

But the 21-year-old wants to feature more frequently this time around.

“Every season is about progression,” said Kyprianou.

“Last season I made 15 appearances and if I can beat that this season I’ll be happy.”

Kyprianou played the second half for Blues in yesterday’s 1-1 draw against Aberdeen’s development team.

And the clash continued a tough pre-season for the defender.

“It’s been very tough,” said Kyprianou.

“We’ve been doing double sessions pretty much every day for two weeks now.

“It’s always tough but I think this year it’s been even tougher than previous years.

“It makes it harder in the heat but we’re getting some good work in the bank and you need that if you’re going to have a good season, which is what we obviously want.”

And Kyprianou was also keen not to dwell on drawing against a young Aberdeen team.

“We want to win every game we play but we’re still finding our feet and getting back into the routine,” said the defender.

“We’re more focused on the performance rather than the result at this moment in time because it’s just about getting ready for the season ahead. This game will have helped with that.”