11:20am Wednesday 3rd February 2010
SOUTHEND United have now completed the loan signing of Arsenal winger Sanchez Watt.
The Shrimpers had been waiting nervously for official confirmation of the deal which is for an initial 28 days.
But the football authorities are now happy that the move was sorted before Monday’s 5pm transfer deadline.
“We were waiting to hear if everything had been agreed for a while so it was great to get the official confirmation in the end,” said Blues boss Steve Tilson.
“We got the paperwork away just in time but there was a little problem with Arsenal’s fax machine which did hold things up, but we got it done before the deadline and I think this could be a very good signing for us.”
Watt, who can play on the left wing or up front, was a key member of Arsenal’s under 18 double-winning team last season as they triumphed in both their league and the FA Youth Cup.
He has also signed a professional contract with the Gunners and, in September last year, the youngster scored on his Arsenal first team debut in a 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion in the Carling Cup.
He went on to make three appearances this season in the same competition for the Gunners’ first team and has represented England at under-16, 17 and 19 levels.
Watt looks certain to figure on the left flank while with the Shrimpers and Tilson is sure he will do well.
“Sanchez has great pace and is left-sided which is something we haven’t had for a while,” said Tilson.
“It’s good to have got him in following the injuries to Anthony Grant and Stuart O’Keefe and we’re certainly looking forward to working with him during his time with us.”
Sanchez will go straight into the Southend side for Monday’s night local derby at Colchester United.
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