FC CLACTON striker Karl Andrade is hungry for goals next season.

The front man has re-signed after a spell at Halstead Town and wasted no time getting back on the scoresheet - notching twice in last week’s pre-season friendly victory against Colne Athletic before slotting home a penalty in Saturday’s 2-1 success at Little Oakley.

He hopes to continue his purple patch when Tom Austin’s men visit Braintree Town Reserves on Saturday, followed by another friendly at Brightlingsea Regent next Tuesday.

“I’m very happy to be back,” said Andrade.

“I’ve got a great relationship with Tom and also know (assistant boss) Ade Webster well, from when he coached me at the Colne Football Academy.

“It’s a step forward for me, I know the club well and the supporters are fantastic.

“It’s a great move for me and I can’t wait for the season to start, because I firmly believe we can push on and be competitive.

“I’m not going to make any big predictions and, as clichéd as it sounds, it’s going to be a question of taking it one game at a time.

“However, with the quality we’ve got, we’re certainly hopeful.

“Tom has kept the nucleus of last season’s squad together and added one or two, so the signs look promising.”

Andrade hopes to become a key figure in terms of goalscoring and says his pre-season strikes have fuelled his confidence.

Following on from his brace against Colne, he converted from the penalty spot against Oakley after Luke Mayhew had put the Acorns ahead.

Jack Clampin then scored a last-minute headed winner to complete a 2-1 victory.

“It’s been nice to chip in already,” said Andrade.

“I’m always eyeing a goal - whether it’s in a friendly, a league match or a cup final.

“They all mean something to me and it means my confidence is high.

“As for next season, my initial target is 14 goals.

“That’s what I managed last season so I want to get to that figure as quickly as possible, then add as many more as possible.

“I always back my ability and there are some creative players at the club who will hopefully give me chances.

“I’m also looking forward to playing alongside Adam Hampson again, having been together at Halstead.

“We’re good friends, know each other well and have a great understanding of each other’s game.”