NORMAN Wabo remains frustrated by his Southend United exit - but is determined to bounce back from the disappointment.

The 21-year-old striker was released after making just five substitute appearances for the Shrimpers’ first team.

But Wabo is still eager to prove his worth.

“It’s very frustrating that I’ll be leaving because I feel I had a lot to offer and I was just getting started,” said Wabo, who was with Blues for six years.

“I wanted more opportunities but they were never given and that also frustrated me because it made me feel like my development was being stalled.

“But I honestly have no regrets and think everything happens for a reason.

“I’ll only let this experience motivate me and put me in a space where I can’t let this happen again because I know where my talent can take me.

“But I can’t let this setback affect me mentally either.”

Wabo made just two first team appearances last season despite being a regular goalscorer in the under-23 team. And Wabo was frustrated more appearances were not forthcoming.

“The main high for me was making my debut because I had worked so hard to be in that position and I felt like it was starting to pay off,” said Wabo.

“But the beginning of this season was a real low for me coming back and not being in and around the first team. After ending the season before on such a high I felt like I wasn’t getting anywhere but now I want to go and prove a lot of people wrong.”