SOUTHEND United midfielder Nathan Ferguson had no idea how far out he actually was when scoring against Forest Green Rovers.

Ferguson netted a screaming shot from fully 40 yards during the Shrimpers’ 3-1 win on Wednesday night.

But the 25-year-old did not realise the distance himself until watching the goal back after the game.

“I didn’t realise how far out I was,” said Ferguson.

“I thought it was within shooting distance and it was only when I was saw the video I thought, wow.”

Ferguson’s stunning strike has now been watched more than a million times on social media.

And he opted to take on the strike due to a lack of options in front of him.

“Everyone was running back when I looked up,” said Ferguson.

“I was under pressure so I just looked at the goal and thought I might as well hit it here.

“If you don’t shoot you don’t score so you’ve always got to take that chance.

“But my phone hasn’t stopped going off since the end of the game and it’s been a bit mad.”

Ferguson also netted from long range against Port Vale on his Shrimpers debut last month.

And the midfielder, who signed from Crawley Town, admitted he has not scored many tap ins during his career.

“I don’t seem to get many easy goals and I’ve scored a few crackers I guess but that’s the best by far,” said Ferguson.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to better that one but it was the win that mattered most.

“I thought we executed the game plan perfectly and did exactly what we planned.”

Blues, who have now moved out of the relegation zone, have now set their sights on Saturday’s clash with Salford City at Roots Hall.

And Ferguson is eager to pick up more points.

“We’re all confident going into the game and we’ve got good spirit around the place too so hopefully we can go and get another result,” said Ferguson.

“It will be a good game and I’ll be looking to have another go at goal but I can’t make any promises it will go in like that again!”