Southend winger Damian Scannell has vowed to continue to improve his fitness levels in a bid to earn his first start for the club.Scannell joined from non-league side Eastleigh in January and made a string of substitute appearances in the latter part of last season.

The 23-year-old has featured heavily so far in pre-season and is hoping to catch the eye of boss Steve Tilson.

"When I joined midway through last season my fitness was behind the rest of the other lads having coming in from non-league," said Scannell.

"But I worked hard during the summer break and although I'm not quite up to everyone else I'm getting there and I'm pleased with how things have been going. It's been very enjoyable as well, but I need to keep it going."

Meanwhile, Charles Ademeno scored the only goal of the game as Southend beat Witham Town 1-0 on Wednesday in the club's latest friendly.

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