SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell believes Shayon Harrison can be a big hit for the Shrimpers in a wide role.

The on loan Tottenham Hotspur youngster - who is more used to playing as a striker - lined up on the left flank for Saturday’s 3-1 win against Portsmouth.

And Powell feels Harrison has what it takes to become a key figure on the flank.

“For a player slightly out of position, I thought he did ever so well on Saturday and I’m really pleased for him,” said Powell.

“He showed us his work-rate and his willingness to do the ugly side of things, so he could most definitely stay there now.”

Harrison played a key part in Blues breaking the deadlock against Portsmouth at the weekend as his run inside the penalty area resulted in visiting defender Matt Clarke firing the ball into his own net.

And Powell is certain Harrison has what it takes to build on his bright start with the Shrimpers.

“Shayon is a player who I feel will have a good career in the game and we’re really pleased to have him,” said the former England international.

“I’ve always known from the times I had seen him, and the times Roger Cross (head of recruitment) and Damian Matthew (assistant manager) had seen him too, that we had a clever player.

“He’s got good feet and he’s quite exciting too, so I wanted him in the team on Saturday.”

As a result, Harrison moved onto the left flank in place of the injured Michael Kightly, with Simon Cox - who missed the 0-0 draw at Bury due to personal reasons - being recalled in attack.

“Coxy (Simon Cox) has done ever so well without getting a goal and he’s had a number of assists so I wanted to keep the team in the same shape because it’s been working and they all know their roles and responsibilities,” said Powell.

“It was just about talking to Shayon on Thursday and Friday and giving him the confidence.

“It worked in training and he’s such a silky player. He’s impressed me in training and you could see his cleverness at Bury too.

“If we were playing on real top pitches you would see a player with skill in abundance, but he should have scored on Saturday. He’s a good finisher so he was disappointed with that.”