SOUTHEND United new boy Timothee Dieng is basking in the glory of France’s World Cup triumph.

Dieng travelled to London to watch his country’s 4-2 win against Croatia in Sunday’s final.

And the midfielder continued his celebrations by wearing a France shirt to training with the Shrimpers at the start of the week.

“It was very special for France to win the World Cup for the first time in 20 years and I’ve been enjoying it,” laughed Dieng.

“I watched the final in London with loads of French people and it was amazing.

“I went to Piccadilly afterwards which was really busy with French people after the final whistle and it’s just been beautiful.

“I actually wore a France shirt to training on Monday and when I had to sing to the rest of the squad while we were away in Spain I sang the French national anthem!

“But I don’t think some of my team-mates were too happy with that!”

However, Dieng is not focusing on securing his own success.

And he is enjoying his first pre-season with the Shrimpers.

“It’s been tough and a lot of hard work but it’s going very well,” said Dieng, who signed for Blues after turning down a contract offer from Bradford City.

“Training has been good and I’ve enjoyed the matches which help us to get into shape too.

“I’ve integrated well with the squad and they have made it easy for me to settle in here.”

Dieng has impressed in Blues’ first two pre-season games and has come close to scoring in both outings.

The 26-year-old has shown a keenness to shoot from long range ans has also looked dangerous in the air from set-pieces, something he wants to maintain.

“The manager has spoken to me about getting goals and I do want to get a few this season,” said Dieng.

“I want to help the team as much as possible and that includes scoring goals.”

Dieng hit the crossbar in last week’s 1-1 draw against Aberdeen’s development team.

And the keen Arsenal fan is now looking forward to facing Tottenham Hotspur this afternoon.

“It will be a good game,” said Dieng.

“I know Tottenham’s main players won’t be playing but they have a lot of very good players at the club so it will be a real test whoever they pick.

“It will be a good game for us as we continue to get ready for the season ahead.”