CALLUM Powell is keen to kick on at Southend United after scoring what he believes will be ‘the hardest goal’ of his Shrimpers career.

Powell fired home his first Blues goal in Saturday’s 3-2 win at Woking.

And the 26-year-old is now determined to keep on hitting the back of the net.

“I think the first goal is the hardest one,” said Powell.

“Most of the time, after that, they start to flow.

“It’s all about getting that first one and I can build confidence from that now.

“I know I will kick on now and score a lot more goals.”

Powell also had a hand in Jason Demetriou’s goal for the Shrimpers at Woking and has yet to see Kevin Maher’s side drop points since signing from Kettering last month.

“Since I’ve signed it’s been four wins in a row so I’ve come into a team full of confidence that’s on the way up,” said Powell.

“Everyone is buying into what the gaffer and the coaching staff are doing and it’s been great.”

The winning run has taken Blues up to 12th in the National League standings and has also given the supporters plenty to celebrate.

“The fans are unbelievable and it was the same again on Saturday,” said Powell.

“They’re loud and they get right behind the team which spurs you on even more.”

Blues are expecting another big crowd for Friday’s clash with Grimsby Town at Roots Hall.

And Powell does not mind where he will feature in the forward line.

“Growing up I’ve always been a winger but this year I’ve been playing as a striker,” said Powell.

“I’ve been scoring a lot of my goals in and around the area and getting in behind teams with my speed.

“I can play out wide and I’d like to think I’m quite versatile so I can contribute with goals and assists wherever I’m deployed.”

Powell is now eager to keep on doing well and has also been able to settle in well off the pitch too.

“I’ve loved it since coming in and the boys have been superb,” said Powell.

“They’ve made me feel welcome and a few of us are living in the same hotel too.

“I’m with Cards (Harry Cardwell), Harrison (Neal) and Kacper (Lopata).

“We’re the troublesome foursome but it’s a really good laugh.

“We all get on really well and love each other’s company so I’m really enjoying it.

“Being back in full-time football is exactly what I wanted and it’s even better than I anticipated in terms of the quality of training and the quality of the other players too.”

Powell added he would continue to work hard in order to make the most of the opportunity.

But he has already worked tirelessly to work his way back into the National League.

“Everyone has their own journey but mine has been quite different,” said Powell.

“I played step four then got a move straight to step one of non-league football.

“I went back down to step three and I’ve gradually had to work my way back up to get back into step one.

"I feel like I’ve earned my stripes in that sense but there’s no stopping me now and what I want to achieve.

“If I keep working hard and showcasing what I’m capable of there’s nothing to hold me back anymore.”