Evans is a former Chelsea trainee and England Under-21 international

Rhys Evans has set his sights on becoming Southend United's first-choice goalkeeper after making a successful debut appearance on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old kept a clean sheet on his first start in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy victory over Gillingham.

Evans, who joined Southend from Bristol Rovers this summer, now wants to retain his place.

He told BBC Essex: "I don't think I could have done much more so it's obviously up to the manager."

If I get an opportunity I've got to try and take it Rhys Evans

Glenn Morris has established himself as Southend's first-choice keeper so far this season.

Evans said: "I'm trying to impress and I want to do well.

"I was very disappointed not to start the season as I thought I'd done enough in pre-season.

"But I'll respect his [manager Paul Sturrock's] decision and just try and keep going on and see what happens.

"Glenn's done pretty well, but if I get an opportunity I've got to try and take it."

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