DON Cowan is certain more games will bring him goals for Southend United and he is eager to prove his point at Hartlepool this weekend.

The 23-year-old striker, who made his Shrimpers debut against Yeovil Town in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday night, has signed a month long deal with the club.

And he is desperate to show he deserves to be given a new longer deal.

“I’m happy to be back playing again and hopefully I can get the games I need to get the goals I know I can score,” said Cowan.

“Fitness wise I’m nearly there now and that means there’s certainly more to come from me.

“But I’m just hoping I get more chances to impress so I can try to show I should be given a longer contract here.

“And hopefully I’ll get an opportunity to play at Hartlepool tomorrow.”

Cowan first came to Southend as a trialist during pre-season and impressed boss Phil Brown with his pace and power.

That eventually persuaded the former Hull City chief to hand him a permanent deal to remain at Roots Hall.

And Cowan now wants to be able to kick start his career after enduring an injury ravaged couple of seasons.

“I broke my ankle when I was with Stevenage and that kept me out for around seven or eight months,” said the striker.

“It’s been hard since then but I’m feeling good and I’m enjoying being with Southend and working under the manager here.”

Cowan added he was fit to play this weekend, despite being substituted with cramp against Yeovil on Tuesday.

Midfielder Marc Laird returned to training yesterday and should also be available for selection and so too should striker Barry Corr despite the Irishman missing training yesterday with a slight knock.

But winger Kevan Hurst remains doubtful with the knee problem which has prevented him from playing so far this season.