SOUTHEND United starlet Oli Coker cannot wait to make his first Roots Hallappearance in tonight’s FA Youth Cup clash with Cambridge United.

Coker - who grew up watching the Shrimpers with his family - has already been with his hometown club for eight years.

But this evening’s first round tie will be the first time the young midfielder has stepped onto the pitch.

And he cannot wait for the game to get underway.

“This will be the first time I’ve played at Roots Hall so I’m really excited but also a little bit nervous as well to be honest,” said Coker, who is based in Hockley.

“It’s something different and another cup competition to be part of.

“But above anything else it’s an important game and it’s one we need to go and make sure we win.

“It’s one I’m looking forward to as well as I would always watch Southend with my family so it will be great to get onto the pitch myself.”

Coker has impressed for the Shrimpers’ under-18 side this season.

And the 16-year-old is pleased with how the season is starting to take shape.

“It was a tough start for us and we lost a couple of games but now we’re starting to get to grips with things and we’re getting a few more wins too,” said Coker.

“We had a lot of first year scholars coming in at the same time so we’re all together but I just think it’s going to take a little bit of time to get that bond before we start to progress and win games.

“That’s starting to happen and we’re looking forward to the Cambridge game now.”

Blues head into the clash sitting seventh in the South East section of the Youth Alliance League, having been beaten in six of their 12 games this term.

Cambridge are just one point and one place above the Shrimpers.

But, having already played the U’s twice this season, Coker knows it will be another tough test tonight.

“Cambridge are a good team,” said Coker, a former Greensward pupil.

“They will be physical and strong but so we have to make sure we compete.

“Everyone is up for it and we’ll be giving it everything to get the win.”

Tonight’s game kicks off at 7.30pm with ticket prices set at £3 adults and £1 concessions.