DRU Yearwood could become just the third ever 18-year-old to reach 50 games for Southend United when the Shrimpers host Plymouth Argyle at Roots Hall tomorrow.

Yearwood, who came through Blues’ youth system, will bring up his half century if he takes to the pitch against the Pilgrims.

And Yearwood is proud to be on the verge of his landmark display.

“If you had asked me a while ago I would have been happy to have played just once and to have had my debut by this point so to be getting to 50 games is great and I’m really proud,” said the midfielder.

“I’m really happy about it and obviously the best way to mark it would be with three points because it’s an important game we need to win.

“I would say it would also be great to mark it with a goal but I think we all know that probably isn’t going to happen.”

Yearwood has failed to score in his 49 games for the Shrimpers with his latest blank coming against Portsmouth in the Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday night.

Yearwood skippered the Shrimpers in the 2-0 defeat and has now set his sights on bouncing back against Plymouth.

“We have a strange pattern of winning then losing then winning again so we want that to at least continue this weekend because we want to bounce back from the Portsmouth game,” said Yearwood.

“It was a frustrating night against Portsmouth and it’s an important match for us at the weekend now.”

Blues will head into the game sitting 10th in the table, ahead of Plymouth who are currently second from bottom in the standings.

But Yearwood knows the Pilgrims will be tough to beat.

“When you look through their squad you can see they have some really good players, especially in attack,” said Yearwood.

“We know we’re in for a tough game but if we play well it’s one we can win so that’s certainly the aim.”

Yearwood will also be looking to lead by example on his 50th display which will see him become the first 18-year-old to reach a half century for Blues since Peter Hunt back in 1971.

Bobby Kellard also reached 50 games before he was 19 in 1962 and boss Chris Powell feels Yearwood should be proud of his achievements.

“To have more first team games than youth team games at 18 is some going,” said Powell.

“If Dru keeps going at this rate he could end up playing about 1,000 games but he should be proud of getting to 50 games.”