BEN Coker is determined to make the most of his return to the Football League after sealing a permanent switch to Southend United.

The 24-year-old has been signed by Blues boss Phil Brown after impressing during a pre-season trial.

And, having dropped out of the professional game last season, Coker is pleased to have signed for the Shrimpers.

“I’m delighted to have got something at Southend and got back in to the league game,” said Coker, who played for Conference North club Histon after having his contract at Colchester United terminated in February.

“Things didn’t work out for me at Colchester when the new gaffer (Joe Dunne) came in and that happens in football.

“I knew I had to get games and I knew the manager at Histon so I went there and enjoyed it.

“But I wanted to be back in the league and hired a personal trainer during the summer to make sure I was in the best shape possible.

“I’ve carried that on during pre-season with Southend and cannot wait for the season to start now.”

Coker made 45 appearances for Colchester during three years with the club.

And he now expects to receive some stick from the U’s supporters after joining their Essex rivals.

“I know there’s a bit of a rivalry between Southend and Colchester and I’m likely to get some stick from their fans but I had to look after myself,” said Coker.

“It’s a good move for me because Southend’s a good club.

“We all think we can get promotion next season and it’s close by for me too.

“It’s an easy journey in from where I live and I’m really chuffed everything has been sorted.”

Blues have chosen to not reveal the length of Coker’s contract at the club.