DAVID Martin says it is a privilege for him to be playing his part at Southend United.

The shot-stopper, who has been with training with the Shrimpers for the past six weeks, made his debut in Tuesday night’s 2-0 win against Maidenhead United at Roots Hall.

And the 37-year-old was pleased to pick up three points in his first game since January 2020.

“I didn’t really have loads to do but it was a game I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of,” said Martin.

“I don’t know how the lads and the management week after week churn out these performances.

“They don’t win every week but they give it a good go and it’s been a privilege to be part of for the last six weeks.

“It was only on Saturday I thought I was going to play tonight and you’ve got to be ready.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve played so to get on the right side of a clean sheet and result for the team means I’m so happy for everyone.”

Blues continue to battle hard of the pitch despite their huge problems off which continue to threaten the club’s existence.

A transfer embargo has been in place for the past 12 months but Martin was only to be registered on a temporary basis following an injury to Collin Andeng Ndi.

But it was still far from straightforward.

“The last 48 hours there’s probably lots of things I couldn’t say about what the management team have been through trying to get players in and get me signed,” said Martin.

“The work they put in, they were all here until 9.30/10pm last night trying to get this done.

“It’s a privilege to be part of this group and they’re all going in the same direction.”

And Martin has also been blown away by Blues’ fans.

“The amount of supporters who turn up every week, no matter what, it’s really inspiring to be a part of,” said Martin.

“The away support I just can’t get my head around it.

“They all back the players and it gets the lads over the line.”

Martin’s admiration also extends to his new team-mates and he was desperate to do well on his debut.

“I was very nervous because I didn’t want to let anyone down,” said Martin.

“I’ve only been here six weeks but I feel a real connection to the club and the gaffer and all the players.

“I didn’t have loads to do but I felt like I eased myself into the game.

“It’s about getting your eye in again but the job’s not done now.

“It’s my first game in about four years but it’s now about the next game as goalkeeping is about being consistent.”

But Martin is also keen to pass on his know how to Andeng Ndi who he has been coaching for most of the season so far.

“I did it last year at MK Dons with three goalkeepers and it’s probably the toughest time I’ve had in my career because I wanted to play and still felt like I could play too,” said Martin.

“To come here this year and it’s me and Collin has been brilliant.

“He’s a great lad.

“I think he’s just turned 20 and he’s got a good future in the game as long as he keeps working hard, doing things properly and listening to me!

“He’s a really good prospect for the club and hopefully once things settle down here, which I’m sure it will, he will be a good goalkeeper for the next five six years or however long we can keep him.”