SOUTHEND United striker Charlie MacDonald is determined to prove his worth at Football League level in the next few weeks.

With top scorer Leon Clarke handed a three match suspension following his red card at Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night, MacDonald is likely to be handed an opportunity to impress.

And he is desperate to make the most of his chance.

"I don't know what the manager is going to do but hopefully I'll get a chance at some stage because I'm chomping at the bit to play," said MacDonald who has started just one game for the Shrimpers since the start of September.

"I haven't got on for the last couple of games and I'm not sure whether I'll get a chance or not soon.

"But Leon getting sent off may have opened up an opportunity and I really want to start showing what I think I can do."

MacDonald joined from Blue Square Premier outfit Gravesend and Northfleet (now Ebbsfleet United) on a free transfer during the summer and has scored one goal in four starts since his arrival.

That came in the Carling Cup triumph over Watford but he will now battle with Matt Harrold, Gary Hooper and Richie Foran for a place in the team.

And the Southwark-born player hopes to get the nod and regain his full match sharpness.

"If I'm honest I do feel like I've lost a bit of fitness," said MacDonald.

"I've worked hard in training and the reserves but it isn't the same because there isn't that competitive edge.

"I think I need a run of games to get that back and hopefully I can do enough to earn them."

MacDonald's first chance may come in the FA Cup against Rochdale at Roots Hall on Saturday and he is confident that a slight hamstring strain will not cause him any more problems.

"I've got a bit of tendonitis but I'm having treatment and ultrasound on it every day," said the forward, who has already suffered with a groin injury and an illness this season.

"It's getting better all the time and I'm sure it's all OK and won't stop me playing."