SOUTHEND United starlet Henry Sandat is relishing his unexpected involvement with the first team this season.

But the 18-year-old striker is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.

Sandat returned to Blues’ starting line-up for the 1-1 draw at Woking on Monday.

And the youngster, who has now made eight senior appearances this season, is loving being part of Kevin Maher’s side in the National League.

“If you had told me at the start of the season when I was with the youth team that I would have made six or seven appearances for the first I would have been buzzing,” said Sandat.

“It’s always nice to start and try and contribute to the team but I just need to keep my head down and work hard.

“I know I’ve still got a lot to improve on so I will just focus on doing that.”

However, Sandat - who has come through the youth ranks at Roots Hall - has certainly not looked out of place when called upon by the Shrimpers.

And he produced another hard-working performance to help Blues pick up a point against Woking.

“I thought considering the conditions and the way they play it was a good result,” said Sandat.

“Obviously three points would have been better and pushed us closer to the play off places but one point is better than none and we have to take it.

“Maybe a few games ago we would have lost that game but I think we have gained more confidence over the last few weeks and we need to take that into Saturday against Dagenham.”

Ninth placed Blues will go into this weekend’s clash with Daggers at Roots Hall five points behind the play-off places with four games to go.

And Sandat wants another strong showing from the Shrimpers, alongside an extra attacking edge.

“We’re going to have to show the same energy and fight against Dagenham as we did against Woking but just add a bit of quality in the final third,” Sandat.

“We know what it means to the fans and for us to go and beat Dagenham who are our local rivals in this league so we hope we can deliver for them.”

And Sandat is also refusing to give up on the Shrimpers’ push for the play-offs.

“My hopes are that we get in the play offs,” said Sandat.

“If I’m playing I’ll be trying to play my part, if I’m not playing I’m supporting the boys and trying my best to make sure I am playing.

“But I’m confident we can get in the play offs with the squad we have and, with the players we have, we can achieve it.”

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