JOSH Wright cannot wait to get started at Southend United.

The 27-year-old attracted interest from a number of clubs after leaving Gillingham last month.

But the midfielder always favoured a switch to the Shrimpers and is delighted to have completed a move to Roots Hall.

“I’m over the moon to have got it done and I know I’ve made the right choice,” said Wright.

“There were a few bits going on and a few clubs were interested but as soon as I knew of Southend’s interest this was the move I wanted to make.

“It’s the best move for a number of factors.

“I’ve always enjoyed playing games at Roots Hall, the fans here are a great plus and it’s local to me as well.

“Phil Brown is also a top manager so I really cannot wait to get started.”

Wright - who has signed a year long contract with the option of a second season - will train with the Shrimpers for the first time today.

But he already knows a few of his new team-mates.

“I had a great year with Jermaine McGlashan at Gillingham and he’s a great lad and I know Kights (Michael Kightly) too,” said Wright.

“He was at Southend and Grays with my brother and is another great lad who also played a big part in getting this move done.

“I also know Jason Demetriou as we’re from the same kind of area so that will definitely help me settle in, plus I’ve played against a lot of the other lads over the years as well.”

Wright has also watched Southend on a trio of occasions in recent weeks.

And he is confident Blues will soon get their season back on track.

“There is a good mix of youth and experience here and I think we’ve got a chance this season,” said Wright.

“I’ve watched three games and the team has been unlucky on each of those occasions.

“On Saturday the boys showed good fighting spirit to come back from 2-0 down but they probably don’t feel the season has got going just yet.

“If I could help that happen then that would be great.”

Wright will now be pushing to make his debut at Fleetwood Town this weekend and his switch to Southend also continues his family’s links with the Shrimpers.

“My dad used to be Freddy Eastwood’s agent and he negotiated his moved to Southend so he already knew the chairman,” said Wright.

“My brother was here too and I’ve always looked out for the results.”