SOUTHEND United winger Mark Gower today admitted he had been frustrated by his recent spell on the Shrimpers' substitutes bench.

The talented midfielder has failed to win his place back in Steve Tilson's side since suffering a virus two weeks ago, but said he was determined to force his way back into contention during the remaining months of the season.

"It's not been nice being on the bench, but I can't just expect to walk back into the team," said the former Spurs trainee.

"The longer it goes on the more frustrating it obviously becomes, but hopefully I'll get another chance soon and I can make the most of it.

"There are still a lot of games to be played and, touch wood, I can play a part in helping us get the results we want in them."

But, after picking up the Player of the Season award with the Shrimpers last year, Gower has endured a mixed second campaign with the League Two club.

The skilful flankster has suffered with both injury and illness and has made just one start since the turn of the year.

"It didn't start off too well, but then I began to get a few goals and we were playing really well before getting injured," said the 26-year-old, who cost Blues a £25,000 transfer fee from Barnet two-years ago.

"I had this back problem I couldn't get rid of and then I got the illness, so it hasn't been the best of seasons for me so far but there is still time to turn it around."