GUS Scott-Morriss feared he had missed his chance to play full-time football prior to signing for Southend United.

The right wing-back was snapped up by Blues boss Kevin Maher following an impressive season with Hemel Hempstead last term.

And the 25-year-old - who had been working as a football coach - is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

“I’d always wanted to play football full-time but I thought my chance had gone,” said Scott-Morriss.

“I was involved in football as I coached at the Oaklands Academy but I kept on working hard, had a good season with Hemel and then Southend came knocking for me.

“It was a no brainer for me really and I can’t wait to get into the season now and see what it’s all about.”

Preparations for the forthcoming campaign are now well underway and Scott-Morriss is enjoying his start to life with the Shrimpers.

“I’ve settled in very well,” said Scott-Morriss.

“It has been very tough coming into the full-time game from being semi-pro and it’s been full on but it’s been enjoyable at the same time.”

Blues spent yesterday morning training on Southend sea-front and will be stepping things up on Saturday when they head to Kings Langley for their first friendly of the summer.

And Scott-Morriss cannot wait to be involved.

“You do a lot of hard work and running in pre-season so it’s nice to get out on the pitch and play 11 against 11,” said Scott-Morriss.

“It’s a local one for me too so it’s happy days and I can’t wait.”

But Scott-Morriss is not looking too much beyond Saturday’s clash.

“You can look too far ahead sometimes,” said the right-back.

“You have to just take it a game at a time.

“Everyone will be wanting and saying the same thing but I think we should be challenging towards the top end of the table.

“That’s what we all want and it’s every exciting.”

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