JOSH Walker wants his pre-season form to be the start of things to come at Southend United this season.

Walker made it three goals in four friendlies with a well-taken left-footed shot against Gillingham on Saturday.

And the summer signing is pleased to already be hitting the back of the net regularly for Blues.

“You want to settle in quickly when you sign for a new club and as a striker you want to score so I’m pleased I’ve done that,” said Walker.

“I scored in my first game and I’m pleased to score in my first game at Roots Hall now too.

“It was good to get another goal but I’m just looking forward to the season starting now and trying to score that day too.”

Walker’s latest pre-season strike was not enough to stop the Shrimpers suffering a 3-1 defeat against the Gills.

But the forward felt Kevin Maher’s side produced a strong performance - despite the final score-line.

“It was unfortunate about the result but it’s pre-season and I thought we played so well so it’s not all bad,” said Walker.

“In the first half I thought we were dominant but we got caught on the counter-attack a couple of times.

“We were good in possession but I don’t think we really tested their keeper enough in the first half.

“The boys played well though and it was good to get more minutes in the legs too.”

Walker again lined up in attack alongside Shrimpers striker Harry Cardwell. And he is already enjoying their partnership.

“He’s a great player and it’s good playing alongside him,” said the 26-year-old.

“We’re still learning but I think we will do well together and we’re both pretty quick so it will be tough for opposition defenders.

“We’ve got Danny Waldron and Jack Wood too and we’re all good players which definitely bodes well.”

Blues will now continue their preparations for the forthcoming campaign by travelling to Ireland for training and a friendly against Ballyfermot United.

And Walker is looking forward to the trip.

“We’re there for a few days and we’ve got a game too which is good,” said Walker.

“We’ll enjoy the trip and work hard and it will be a good experience to get away with the boys. It’s good for team bonding too.”

However, the Shrimpers’ spirits have been lifted by the consortium taking control of the club.

And that has made Walker’s first few weeks at Roots Hall even more memorable.

“It’s been great and the takeover happening has made it even better,” said Walker.

“I knew it was nearly done before I signed so I wasn’t worried but I was thankful it got done and it’s a good place to be.

“I knew Harry Taylor and Daz (Darren Currie) already and it’s been easy to settle in with such a good group of lads so it’s been good.”

But Walker is certain it can get even better for Blues this season.

“I think we should set our sights on promotion,” said the striker.

“If it’s not winning the league then the minimum is getting in the play-offs. We’ve got a good team and I think we’re going to do well.”