FC CLACTON'S Ben Parkin believes the club's supporters are yet to see the best of him.

The striker-cum-defender was a key figure during last season's Thurlow Nunn League campaign, playing in various positions to help them achieve a club-best 10th spot.

However, the former Wivenhoe Town man admits he struggled in terms of fitness - having been hampered by a hamstring injury - and is planning a summer of hard graft to ensure he returns in top-top shape for the start of the 2016/17 term.

"I certainly enjoyed last season," he said.

"But it was a hard one for me personally, in terms of injuries and fitness, and I didn't score as many goals as I would have liked.

"The Clacton fans haven't seen the best of me yet. Not at all.

"It's time for a break now, to get my body sorted, and I'm looking forward to having some free Saturdays.

"But very soon I'm going to start working hard to get properly fit, because that wasn't the case last season.

"People have told me I played well, but I don't feel that way.

"I haven't felt sharp and know I can be much fitter.

"I've got a plan and know what I'm going to do.

"I'm going to have a two-week break and then get back in the gym, to make sure I come back feeling much fitter."

Parkin, who became the club's first summer signing last year and went on to score nine goals, showed his versatility during the campaign.

He started as a striker but moved back into the defence, out of necessity.

"I played at the back when I was at the Colne (Football College) and also in my first season at Wivenhoe," said the 23-year-old.

"I know how to play there and enjoy.

"There's less running, which suits me, and I like the physical battles. That's a big part of my game.

"As a team we were really pleased to finish tenth but we could have finished even higher.

"We conceded too many goals that have cost us important points, losing or drawing games we should have won, and I know we can do even better."

Parkin is looking forward to facing former club Wivenhoe next season, after the Dragons sealed their return to the premier division by winning the first division title.

"Coming to Clacton was a massive decision for me because I've always had a strong bond with Wivenhoe," he said.

"I still go and watch them whenever I can.

"They've done very well this season and I'm really looking forward to playing them next season."