TED Smith is pushing for a place in Southend United's first team squad, according to manager Phil Brown.

Smith has represented England at under 19 level this season but has yet to make his first team debut for the Shrimpers.

However, Brown believes he will soon seriously have to soon start to consider the youngster for a place in the matchday squad.

“Ted is really impressing in training and I'm going to have to really think about putting him on the bench for the first team soon,” said the Blues boss.

“He has really caught the eye with his displays and quite a few people have mentioned it to me.

“He will be battling with Paul Smith for that spot on the bench and the two of them are putting Daniel Bentley under real pressure so the goalkeeping department is very strong.”