SIMON Cox insists he will again be putting the team first when Southend United take on Bury tonight.

The Shrimpers striker will head into the game at Gigg Lane without a goal in his last seven outings.

But Cox - who last netted against Charlton Athletic on Boxing Day - will continue to put the side first against the Shakers.

“I know I’ll be judged on goals at the end of the season but I would happily take staying on the same number of goals if it meant we moved up the table and pushed for the play-offs,” said the 30-year-old, who has scored seven goals this term.

“The goals aren’t coming for me at the moment, but I’ll keep on putting the hard graft in to help the team.

“I had been disappointed by my lack of assists but I’m claiming all three from the Wigan game on Saturday so I was pleased with that and obviously the result as well.

“We all want to keep this run we’re on going, but if I could get back among the goals then that would be the icing on the cake.”

Cox’s work-rate has caught the eye in attack in recent weeks.

And the forward is already enjoying playing for Shrimpers boss Chris Powell, who has won all three of his games since returning to Roots Hall.

“It’s been enjoyable and it’s been enjoyable because it’s been hard work,” said Cox.

“All footballers normally moan when that happens, but it’s been good and everyone has a smile on their face.

“We got a good result in the manager’s first game in charge against Scunthorpe and we’ve been able to build on that.

“We’ve taken nine points out of nine and we’re all feeling confident again.”

Blues’ run of three successive victories has seen them move up to 14th in the League One table.

But, despite the good run, Cox insists the Shrimpers will not be taking anything for granted against a Bury side sitting bottom of the standings.

“We’re in good form but so are Bury and they got a really good point at Bradford at the weekend,” said Cox.

“Whether or not they deserved more from the game I don’t know but they’ve been doing well under the new manager.

“We will have to go there and play the game on its merits.

“But we’re all looking forward to getting out there and picking up more points.”