SOUTHEND United new boy Jake Cassidy turned down moves to ‘numerous’ League One clubs in favour of a switch to the Shrimpers.

The 21-year-old striker has joined Blues on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers until the end of the season.

And it was the chance to figure in a promotion push which prompted him to come to Roots Hall.

“I had numerous League One clubs come in for me but I had positive vibes about coming to Southend,” said Cassidy.

“I didn’t want to be in League One sitting in mid-table or lower, I wanted to be going for promotion with Southend.

“It’s a different challenge and one I’m looking forward to.

“I’m also looking forward to working with Phil Brown who I spoke to this week all about the club and his ambitions.

“I obviously know of him from his time at Hull and Bolton so I know the calibre of manager he is.

“That’s also what persuaded me to come down here.”

Cassidy spent the first half of the season on loan in League One with Notts County, scoring four goals in 20 appearances.

Prior to that, he enjoyed three separate loan spells at Tranmere Rovers and also made 25 appearances for Wolves’ first team.

But, with his contract at Molineux close to expiring, Cassidy knows he must impress with the Shrimpers. “My contract at Wolves ends this year but they have an option on me,” said Cassidy.

“I’m not sure what’s going on with that but I’ll find out towards the end of the season I would imagine so this is a big few months for me.

“It’s a bit of a gamble coming down a league but I think I can do well here and want to help Southend win promotion.”

Cassidy is also desperate to get among the goals.

And he is confident of hitting the back of the net for Blues.

“I’ve scored goals in League One and the manager has told me that this team create chances so hopefully I can finish some of them off,” said Cassidy.

“I’ll always work hard and give 100 per cent and I’m obviously desperate to do well for Southend, starting with the game at Oxford tomorrow."