MANCHESTER United youngster Ethan Hamilton insists he jumped at the chance to join Southend United on loan.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who was on loan at Rochdale last season, will spend the rest of the season with the Shrimpers.

And Hamilton cannot wait to sample more first team football. 

"I needed to get out and play first team football to keep developing and moving forward and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to be able to come to Southend and do that," said Hamilton.

“League One is a great League and there’s loads of competition in it.

"I can’t wait to get going and working with the group.”

Hamilton scored four goals in 14 games while with Rochdale last season and helped Dale beat Blues 1-0 back in April during a spell he thoroughly enjoyed. 

“It was different coming away from under 23s football and it was a great experience for me, one that I really enjoyed," said Hamilton.

“I just want to play the best I can, give my all for the team and that’s what I want to do.

“I’m quite all action. I like to get around the pitch and affect the game the best I can.

“The games are coming thick and fast and hopefully we can get on a bit of a run and bounce into the next games.

“I’m ready and raring to go.

"I’ve been working hard and that win on Tuesday was great so hopefully we can carry that on into the next games.”