SOUTHEND United defender Richard Taylor is back enjoying his football and is determined to keep playing a prominent part for the Shrimpers.

The 19-year-old is one of just three players to have started both matches so far this season.

And, after enduring a tough campaign last time around, Taylor is relishing the new regime at Roots Hall with Mark Molesley now in charge.

“I’m enjoying my football again and the manager is looking after us well,” said Taylor.

“Hopefully the young players keep getting more chances and we can keep playing well.

“We’re a young side and we have things to work on but there have been real positives in the first couple of games.

“I thought we did well against West Ham but it was just the little things that cost us in the end.

“We need to improve on them in training now and work hard to do better in the games ahead.”

Taylor joined the Shrimpers in the summer of 2019 after being released by Burnley and first broke into the senior side last season.

The defender made three appearances but, following his display in a 4-2 defeat at Bristol Rovers last December, Taylor did not make another match day squad all season.

And it is also understood Taylor was demoted to train with the under 23 squad and did not work with the first team again until the start of pre-season.

“It tested me massively as a person let alone as a footballer if I’m honest about it,” said Taylor, looking back at the second half of last season.

“It built my character and opened my eyes to a few things but it’s in the past now and it’s something to learn from.

“This is a new start now for everyone and the manager is looking after us so it’s been good.”

Blues started the season with a 1-0 defeat at Gillingham in the first round of the Carabao Cup before losing 3-1 to West Ham United’s under 21 team on Tuesday night in the first group game of the EFL Trophy.

Taylor has already featured at both left-back and centre-back but does not mind where he is selected.

“I’m happy to play and I just want to stay around it now and try to stay in the manager’s plans this season,” said Taylor.

“It would be good to get more appearances and fingers crossed I’ll get another one on Saturday.”

The Shrimpers start their League Two season at home to newcomers Harrogate Town this weekend.

And Taylor feels Blues will go into the campaign with their heads held high despite their recent struggles which included relegation last term.

“We have a lot of leaders and heads are up again,” said Taylor.

“We’re looking forward to the new season and we’re ready.

“It’s a challenge we’ll be ready for. I feel ready and wherever I get asked to play I’ll play and whatever I can do to help the team I’ll do as well.”