SOUTHEND United starlet Isaac Hutchinson is hoping for more first team minutes after another impressive showing for the under 23s.

The attacking midfielder bagged a brace in Blues’ 2-2 draw against AFC Wimbledon in the Central League Cup yesterday.

And the 18-year-old, who was taken off at half-time, would love to be given the chance to take his fine form into League One.

“I’m very happy with the way things are going at the moment and if I got more minutes with the first team then that would be perfect,” said Hutchinson.

“I take any opportunity I can get to be involved with the first team and I never thought I would be involved with them at this stage of the season.

“It’s all really good experience being in and around them all but of course I would love to get more minutes, especially in the League.”

Hutchinson - who has now scored six goals in his last two games for the under 23s - has featured three times for Blues in the Checkatrade Trophy this season but is still waiting to be handed his League debut.

The youngster showed his talents during the draw with the Dons.

But he was frustrated the Shrimpers were unable to hang onto their lead.

“To concede so late on was disappointing,” said Hutchinson.

“I thought it was a good performance from us and every single player really put a shift in.

“Unfortunately they scored right at the end which was tough to take but we played some good stuff.”

>BLUES’ trip to Doncaster Rovers has been rearranged for Tuesday February 12.