SOUTHEND United youngster Rob Howard has spoken of his pride after making his first team debut for the Shrimpers.

The 21-year-old played the final 22 minutes of Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Mansfield Town.

And Howard, who came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall, was thrilled to finally make his first senior appearance for the club.

“It was a really amazing feeling to make my debut,” said the Billericay based Howard.

“Throughout the season I’ve just kept my head down and worked hard in training, waiting for the opportunity to come and I’m really pleased it’s finally happened.”

Howard was initially with Blues between the ages of 11 and 14 before his fine form saw him snapped up by Arsenal.

The youngster spent two seasons with the Gunners before joining Colchester United and then coming back to the Shrimpers in 2018.

And he was thrilled to be called upon by boss Mark Molesley against the Stags as Blues dug deep to secure a share of the spoils.

“I was excited when the manager said to get ready to come on and it’s something I’ve been waiting to hear for a long time,” said Howard.

“Standing on the side stripped and ready I was just preparing myself to do a job for the team.I’ve been back for three seasons now and it felt amazing to finally say I’ve played for Southend, the club I’ve grown up at. It’s something I always dreamt of when I was growing up and when I was watching the first team when I was younger too so it was great.”

Howard, who normally features at right-back for Blues’ under 23 side, featured on the right flank after his introduction at Field Mill. And he helped the Shrimpers make it four games unbeaten despite the hosts piling on the pressure in the latter stages.

“The game was becoming really hectic and we were under the cosh for a while so I just wanted to get on and do my job defensively,” said Howard.

“I wanted to try and bring some structure and press, block some passes, break up play and try to slow the game down.”

Blues will now be looking to build on the draw and Howard is also keen to help make that happen by playing more himself.

“I’m really hungry now I’ve made my debut and I want more but I know I’ve got to work even harder for more chances,” said Howard.

“If and when the chances come I’ve got to take them and have an affect on the team when I play. But it is time to kick on and aim to stay around the first team. I want to get as many appearances I can to try and help the team to progress out of the situation we are in at the moment.”

The Shrimpers are currently bottom of the League Two table, three points from safety.