TOM Clifford has spoken of his pride after making his full debut for Southend United.

The 20-year-old left-back produced an impressive performance in the Shrimpers’ 2-1 win against Lincoln City at Roots Hall on Saturday.

And, having already been at the club for nine years, Clifford was thrilled to finally be handed an opportunity with the first team.

“I was very proud to make my full debut after being at the club for a long time,” said Clifford.

“It was a proud moment and it was pleasing as well, especially as we won the game too.

“I’m still on a high about it all now and I was over the moon to play.

“I was happy with how it all went too.

“I think it took me a little while to get into the game if I’m being honest but after that I felt as though I settled in alright.

“But I know it’s only one game and I have to work even harder now to try and make sure I get more games.”

Clifford lined up on the left hand side of the back four.

And the youngster - who had previously made one substitute appearance for the first team - felt it was a good performance from Sol Campbell’s side.

“I think as a team we played well and we played some really nice stuff at times too,” said Clifford.

“I thought we fully deserved the win and it was a great moment when Elvis (Bwomono) scored right at the end.

“It would have been disappointing to draw after being in front for so long and I thought we deserved the three points.”

However, Clifford was nearly the match-winner himself after seeing a close range effort well saved by Lincoln goalkeeper Josh Vickers.

“I think I should have scored,” said Clifford.

“In fairness the keeper did come out quickly but I still should have scored.”

Blues were still able to triumph and Clifford is keen to build on the win.

“Hopefully we can get a little run going now and we’ll all be giving it our all,” said Clifford, who was with Tottenham Hotspur before joining Blues.

“I want to stay in and around now as well and see what happens from there.

“I really enjoyed Saturday but now our attention turns to the next game.”

The Shrimpers, who remain second from bottom in the table, head to 15th placed Blackpool this weekend looking to bag back to back wins.