MATT Rush is enjoying a stunning start to the season at Southend United but hopes the best is yet to come.

The teenage striker has already hit the back of the net 18 times this term.

And he is desperate for his fine form to result in his first team debut.

“I’m itching to come on and show what I can do,” said Rush, who has been an unused substitute twice for the Shrimpers this season.

“My main aim this season was to be in and around the first team and I’m doing that at the moment.

“But the next target is to be with them as much as I can.

“My debut is what I’m dreaming of and hopefully it happens soon but I’ll just keep working hard and doing all I can.”

Rush was on the bench for Sol Campbell’s first game in charge against Ipswich Town at the weekend.

And the 18-year-old feels he is benefitting from spending time out on loan at Isthmian Premier League side Harlow Town.

“Being at Harlow is really helping me,” said Rush.

“I’m playing consistently and that’s what I want. I’m playing three games a week and that’s definitely helping me.”

Rush has impressed while with Harlow and also caught the eye for Blues in their 3-2 defeat at Billericay Town in the third round of the Essex Senior Cup on Tuesday night.

The former Bromfords School pupil netted a fine low shot in the second half and Rush is already close to getting his 20th goal of the campaign.

“I’ve got 18 goals this season now,” said Rush, who has been with Blues since joining in the under-14s.

“I’ve got 11 for Harlow and seven for the under-23s here so I’m doing well and I’m enjoying my football. I’m playing a bit deeper now and I’m enjoying being more of a number 10.

“Last year I was more of a nine but it’s good and I just have to keep doing all I can to keep this form going.”

However, Rush remains frustrated his latest effort was not enough to stop Blues being beaten by Billericay.

“It was very frustrating because I thought we played really well in parts,” said Rush.

“We weren’t bad defensively but we made mistakes as a team and in the first half we should have scored more and been about three up.”

But Rush’s display earned praise from coach Craig Fagan.

“Rushy was excellent again,” said Fagan.

“His work ethic and desire to win the ball back is what’s needed. He’s pushing to get into the first team and wants to keep improving.”