SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell is keen to help midfielder Michael Klass ‘make this his season’.

The youngster came off the bench for his Football League debut at Plymouth Argyle on Saturday having previously played twice in the Checkatrade Trophy last term.

But Powell is now keen for Klass to build on his first League appearance and believes he has the talent to make a big impact for Blues.

“I’ve got plans for Michael and he’s a player I spoke to before we came back for training,” said Powell.

“I gave him a ring and did actually think about going to his house but I thought that might scare him so I called him instead.

“It was three or four days before pre-season and I told him to make this his season.

“I told him he has the quality and the stature to really make a difference and he’s slowly getting there.”

The 19-year-old - who is again likely to be involved against Brentford in the Caraboa Cup on Tuesday night - joined Blues in 2017 having previously been with both Fulham and Queens Park Rangers.

Since then Klass has impressed for the Shrimpers’ under 23 side coached by former Blues midfielder Kevin Maher.

But the teenager is now regularly involved with the first team.

“He’s been with the first team in every training session we’ve had since we’ve been back,” said Powell.

“He’s not been with the under 23s and he’s a player I’ve got time for.

“I think the young players also know I’m not afraid to put them.

“I did it with Dru (Yearwood) and that should be an inspiration for all our young players.

“Elvis (Bwomono) has played too and I’m not afraid to give the youngsters a chance.”

However, Powell is also keen not to rush Klass.

“Hopefully Michael can blossom but I don’t want anyone to try and rush him because we won’t,” said the Blues boss.

“We will dip him in and when the time is right for him to start a game we’ll make sure he’s ready to show everyone what he’s about.”

Klass played the final nine minutes in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Plymouth Argyle and came close to scoring late on with a low shot which went just wide.