SOUTHEND United new-boy Cauley Woodrow is relishing the physical challenges he will have to combat to succeed in League Two.

The 18-year-old striker will be spending at least the next month on loan with the Shrimpers from Premier League club Fulham.

And, having played predominantly in youth team football, Woodrow is looking forward to testing himself against more experienced opponents.

“It’s going to be tough playing against defenders who are much bigger than me but I’m looking forward to the challenge and it’s exactly what I need,” said Woodrow.

“It’s been an aim of mine to get out on loan and play in matches that really matter with points to play for and I’m very happy to have come to Southend.

“I watched the game at Wycombe on Saturday and thought the lads were very unlucky to lose.

“I could also see they played some good football and that will definitely suit me, so hopefully I can fit in well.”

Woodrow joined Fulham from Luton Town for £440,000 in March 2011 and scored 20 goals in 19 games for their under-18 side last season.

This time around he has kicked off the new campaign with three goals in four reserve team matches.

And he now wants to take that form into his spell with the Shrimpers and secure some happier memories of playing at Roots Hall.

“The last time I came here was with Fulham in the FA Youth Cup, we lost 2-1 and I was clattered by a defender who got sent off for the tackle,” recalled Woodrow.

“Hopefully it will go better this time and I’ll be able to get goals which can help Southend get points.

“I know Britt Assombalonga really benefitted from the loan spell he had here and hopefully I’ll be able to do the same.”

Woodrow is now in line to make his Blues debut against Morecambe this weekend.

He will be challenging Barry Corr for a place in the starting line-up alongside the in-form Freddy Eastwood.

And Woodrow could also soon be featuring in the same side as midfielder Jack Payne who he has known since the age of eight.

“I was with Jack at Tottenham and we’ve been friends since then,” said Woodrow.

“I spoke to him to let him know I was coming down and knowing him already has certainly helped me settle in even quicker.”