SOUTHEND United Jack Wood is looking to teach National League defences a lesson after opting to focus on his football full-time.

Wood was studying Football Business at UCFB when he first signed for the Shrimpers in January 2022.

But the 20-year-old – who has started the last two matches for Blues – has put studying on hold to help him fulfil his potential with Kevin Maher’s side.

And Wood is determined to keep on showing what he can do, starting with tonight’s trip to Aldershot Town.

“I put studying on hold because I wanted to concentrate 100 per cent on football,” confirmed Wood.

“I didn’t want to do half and half.

“I’ve always wanted to be a footballer since I was young so I’ve put university on hold.

“I can always go back to it if I want to but I’m fully focused on football and taking my chance here.”

Wood excelled while out on loan at Tonbridge Angels in National League South last season.

But he has been part of every matchday squad so far this term and feels ready to contribute on a consistent basis.

“Going out on loan last season was perfect for me,” said Wood.

“Getting 90 minutes every week was great but hopefully this season I can prove to the fans and the manager what I can do for Southend.

“Hopefully I can get minutes and it will make my confidence improve.”

Wood made 11 appearances off the bench before being handed his first start against Maidenhead United last week.

And the youngster is enjoying adjusting to his new role as a central striker in behind Harry Cardwell.

“I’ve not really played there before,” said Wood.

“I’ve been a winger so it’s something I’m adapting to but playing up there with Cards with the players we have around us is good.

“I’m really enjoying it and hopefully there’s more to come.”

Wood won Blues a penalty during the 2-0 win against Maidenhead before also partnering Cardwell in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to AFC Fylde.

But Wood is not dwelling on the setback.

“We’re not thinking about it much now,” said Wood.

“We want to put it right against Aldershot and that’s what we’re focusing on.”

Blues, who sit bottom of the table, are eager to get back to winning ways.

And Wood wants to play his part in that happening.

“I’ve got to keep on proving myself and every chance I get I’ve got to try and take it,” said Wood.

“Hopefully I’ll get another chance against Aldershot and can do what I want to do.”

Wood will again be pushing to start alongside Cardwell and is enjoying linking up with the Shrimpers’ top-scorer.

“He’s brilliant up there, “said Wood.

“He’s perfect to play up there.

“You can give it to him or play it in behind for him.

“He only needs one chance to finish and he did that on Saturday again.

“Hopefully we keep him fit and he will be flying this season.”

But Wood is also desperate to start contributing in front of goal himself.

“Once I get one hopefully I’ll get a few more,” said Wood.

“It’s all small details but it would be good to get the breakthrough as soon as possible.”