Freddy Eastwood is looking forward to hitting the goal trail on the international stage after receiving his first call-up to the Wales squad.

Wales coach John Toshack has selected the prolific Southend forward for a friendly against New Zealand on May 26 and the Euro 2008 qualifier against the Czech Republic at the Millennium Stadium seven days later.

"The last two times I played in Wales I've scored three goals and won promotion, so I have very good memories of the country," Eastwood told the Shrimpers' official website.

"I scored in the play-off final against Lincoln and then got two at Swansea last season, so I'm looking forward to going back."

Essex-born Eastwood qualifies for the Principality thanks to his late grandfather, who was born in Llanelli.

The call-up caps a remarkable rise to fame for the 23-year-old, who, after being rejected by West Ham, joined the Shrimpers from non-league Grays Athletic less than three years ago.

Originally signed on loan, he scored within seven seconds of his debut against Swansea and went on to hit a hat-trick, the first of 49 goals over two seasons which guided Southend to successive promotions.

Eastwood has not hit the same heights in the Coca-Cola Championship this term but still found the net 16 times - including a spectacular winner against Manchester United in the Carling Cup - although his goals could not stop the Shrimpers sliding back into League One.

But the striker, who is currently receiving treatment on a back injury, remains confident he can cut it at international level.

"It's brilliant news for me and obviously I'm delighted to get the chance to play for my country," he added.

"The better the players around me the better I'll play. It is going to be a great experience.

"I was asked what nationalities I had in my background and my mum's side of the family is Welsh. It's great news and I'm hopeful I'll get my chance.

"I've scored a few goals this season, although I would have liked a few more. My target was 20 but I've missed a couple of games recently.

"I've got three weeks to get fit before we start training together so I think I'll be okay. I may even be fit for the Southampton game on Sunday and hopefully I'll get on the scoresheet there."