SOUTHEND United defender Kacper Lopata is enjoying tracking Poland’s progress at the World Cup.

But in four years’ time the Shrimpers centre-back is determined to be playing far more of a part.

Lopata has represented his country at under 18, 19, 20 and 21 age groups.

And he now has his sights set one day working his way into the senior set-up.

“My biggest dream is get 50 caps for Poland,” said Lopata.

“Every kid wants to play for his country and I think that’s the biggest accolade in football, especially at a big tournament.

“I’ve got boys I know from the 21s at this World Cup now and I’m thinking in four years’ time that’s where I want to be as well.

“I won’t shy away from that and you never know what can happen.

“Every day I wake up I have that ambition somewhere in the back of my head and one day I want to put on that jersey for the first team.”

Poland have made it through to the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time since 1986 and will take on France in a tough looking test on Sunday.

But Lopata – who is not normally a fan of watching football – has enjoyed seeing his national side make it through their group on goal difference.

“I have been watching the games, surprisingly, actually,” said Lopata.

“There have been games on at the training ground we’ve watched and I’ve watched Poland as well.

“I’m happy with how they’re doing and I’ve been enjoying watching it because it means something to me.

“Hopefully they can keep on doing well.”

However, Lopata’s main focus remains closer to home and the 21-year-old is eager to ensure the Shrimpers get back to winning ways against Altrincham at Roots Hall this weekend having been beaten in their two previous outings.

“We will be looking to bounce back now,” said Lopata.

“It’s not been good enough in the last two games and we can’t shy away from that.

“We’ve all got to do better, myself included and we will look to do that on Saturday.”

But Lopata is also keen to ensure the squad remain level headed.

“In football people can get on a high really quickly and we’ve done brilliantly for 10 or 12 games,” said Lopata.

“We deserve credit for that and so do all the staff behind the scenes but when it goes a bit south you can’t get too down.

“You have to be level headed and I’m sure this is just a slight blip. “You can’t ever get too high or too down and you have to keep that balance because football changes quickly.

“One day you’re the hero the next you’re the worst player in the world so you can’t go with what people think and get caught up in it all.

“The morale has been no different this week and we’re still training hard for what is another very important game.”

Blues head into the clash sitting fifth in the table and Lopata has set his sights on staying in the play-off positions.

“We’re fifth in the league and targeting the play-off spots 100 per cent,” said Lopata.

“That has to be the aim because if it’s not then what’s the point?

“Southend are a massive club with massive support and I just hope they get behind us on Saturday like I’m sure they will.”

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