MILES Mitchell-Nelson is determined to build on his first team debut at Southend United.

The 19-year-old defender played the final 10 minutes in place of Harry Phillips during Saturday’s 2-1 win against Lincoln City.

And the youngster is keen to stay in Sol Campbell’s plans.

“For the rest of the season my goal is to just keep putting in performances at the training ground on and off the pitch to be a mainstay in this team,” said Mitchell-Nelson.

“I want help the team get the results we need to have the best possible chance for the rest of the season."

The Shrimpers, who face Blackpool at Bloomfield Road tomorrow, relied heavily on their youngsters last weekend to bag their first home win of the season.

And Mitchell-Nelson was pleased to part a part. 

"To make my debut was such a great achievement for me and it felt even better doing it at home because the fans were so welcoming," said Mitchell-Nelson.

"The team played very well to battle it out to the end and get the win especially after conceding late in the game.

"But we kept pushing and got the win."

Mitchell-Nelson's debut came in an unfamiliar role in the centre of the park.

But the youngster was pleased to just get on the pitch.

"My original position is centre back but the manager asked whether I could play centre midfield and I said yes," said Mitchell-Nelson.

"It makes me feel good as I feel I’ve gained trust from the management that they could play me in a different position which I did enjoy."

Mitchell-Nelson had previously been on the bench twice towards the end of the 2017/18 season.

But he has been with Blues since the under 16s.

"I joined the club late in the u16s season and came in from my Sunday League team Ryan FC," said Mitchell-Nelson.

"I was spotted by Southend at a London Cup final.

"After that I went on trial and got a scholarship."

However, Mitchell-Nelson continued his development by heading out on loan to Harlow Town earlier on this season.

"Going out on loan to Harlow Town helped me a lot," said Mitchell-Nelson.

"Being able to play week in, week out in a physical league was great.

"A good part of my game was worked on and it also helped me understand the men’s game better."

And Mitchell-Nelson has already noticed a big step up from youth football.

"First team football is definitely different from the 23s but I felt I was prepared as Craig (Fagan) always has us boys ready for a step up into the first team," said Mitchell-Nelson.

"He gives us advice in training or gives us instructions in matches that are relatable to a first team match so that when we step up we are already prepared for what’s to come.

"But the game is definitely quicker."