JACK Simmons says he is determined to inspire Canvey Island to a successful season after returning to the club.

The 23-year-old winger rejoined the club for the third time last week, moving from East Thurrock United.

Simmons has played 54 times for Canvey, scoring eight goals and winning the Supporters’ Player of the Year award in 2015.

The former Dartford and Needham Market wide man started against Coggeshall Town in Saturday’s thrilling 3-3 draw.

And he says he is looking forward to the remainder of the season as he bids to fire Canvey back into the Isthmian Premier League.

“After I left East Thurrock Mark [Bentley] and Danny [Heale] got in touch and we took it from there,” said Simmons. “I had a few offers but with everything going on at Canvey it was the best option for me.

“I know Danny, Batchy [chairman John Batch] and [assistant manager] Brad Wellmen and it’s a good place to play.

“I know Mark as well and after going to a few training sessions I was happy to make the move and I am really enjoying it so far. Mark was at Grays and they were a good side when he was there. I remember watching him play for Southend when I was younger and always enjoyed that.

“I have a good affiliation with the club and I’m happy to be back. It is a good dressing room and there is a lot of talent in there. We need to be pushing for the play-offs and maybe more.”

Simmons won the free-kick which was converted by Martin Tuohy on Saturday but the Gulls were unable to hold onto 2-0 and 3-2 advantages against their Essex rivals.

And Simmons believes a decision before half-time changed the course of the game.

He said: “We were unlucky on Saturday and should have gone 3-0 up before they got a goal back.

“They broke from our attack and scored although there was a push on our defender [by Coggeshall’s attacker] which should have been penalised. That changed the course of the game but a point at Coggeshall isn’t a bad result. We want momentum and it may be a very important point come April.

“I am looking forward to getting going. I want to contribute a lot and that was my first game for a while.

“After a few more sessions I will get better and fitter after a few weeks out. I want to push on. I set goals and assists targets each season and am determined to reach them.”