SOUTHEND United striker Wayne Gray is confident of enjoying a more prolific season with the Shrimpers next year.

The former Wimbledon forward netted 13 times last time around as Steve Tilson's side secured promotion from League Two via the play-offs.

And Gray is now sure he can prove his critics wrong by beating that tally during the forthcoming term.

"It was the first time I had played with this set of players and it was the first time they had played with me too," said the 24-year-old.

"We will be more used to each other next year and that should really help us."

The speedy front-runner added he was pleased to have helped the Seasiders achieve success and was satisfied with his return in front of goal.

"I would have liked to have got a few more but I got 13 from 30 something starts and that's OK," he said.

"It was my first full season as a regular first team player and it was a good experience for me, plus it's now given me a target and something to try and beat next season."

Competition for places in the Shrimpers' strikeforce could soon be intensified as the club is searching for another forward, but that does not worry Gray.

"If you're good enough you will play, it's as simple as that," he said.

"And if you don't get picked then you just have to work hard in training and wait for another chance, there is no point complaining.

"We need a strong squad next year but we already have some very good players and I think we could make it a double promotion next year."

BLUES have now sold 2,457 season tickets for the 2005/06 campaign, which is already a 39 per cent rise from last year.