GARY Hooper is gagging for a double dose of promotion glory.

The striker fired Hereford United out of League Two during an incredible loan spell with the Bulls.

And, having now returned to Roots Hall after three months at Edgar Street, the forward is planning more of the same with Southend United.

"It was great to get promoted at Hereford and hopefully I can make it two here now," said the 20-year-old.

"Things went really well for me there. I scored 12 goals in 19 games and it really helped me develop my game.

"I played every game during my three months and most of them were for the full 90 minutes as well which was great.

"Making sure we went up was superb and it would be brilliant to experience that twice in the same season."

Hooper made sure of promotion for Hereford last weekend by bagging the opening goal in their 3-0 win at Brentford.

He was back training with Blues at Boots and Laces yesterday, though, and is looking to impress during the remaining matches of the season.

"It's been good to see all of the boys again, they have been doing really well without me, but I hope that I can now play my part in the games we have left," said Hooper who could figure straight away for the Shrimpers at home to already relegated Port Vale on Saturday.

"The standard of football in League Two was a lot different to what I am used to - this is definitely a better standard and it will be a good test again.

"I've been looking out for results and it was a shame that we didn't win at Tranmere at the weekend because then automatic promotion would still have been a possibility.

"But there are still some big and exciting games ahead which would be great to play in."

Hooper also wants to find his scoring boots for the Seasiders, having netted just four times in 43 appearances, to repay manager Steve Tilson .

"The gaffer phoned me a lot while I was with Hereford and it was nice that he kept in touch," said Hooper.

"Him and Brushy came and saw me play a couple of times and Dean Austin was at Brentford last Saturday so I was happy that they were interested.

"After all I signed a new contract here before I went out on loan and I see my long term future at Roots Hall, hopefully that is in the Championship."

>BLUES reserves are in action at Grays Athletic tonight, kick off 7pm.