SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown is backing his latest summer signing Anthony Wordsworth to dictate matches for the Shrimpers next season.

As was first revealed in Echosport, Wordsworth has signed a two-year deal with the League One newcomers.

And boss Brown is thrilled to have completed a move for the attacking midfielder.

“I’m so happy to have signed Anthonybecause I think he’s going to be a brilliant signing for us,” said the Blues chief.

“It was a difficult situation because he had two or three other clubs who wanted to sign him but he opted to sign for us which is fantastic.

“He has a wonderful left foot and if we can get him on the ball enough then he really has the ability to be able to dictate matches for us in League One next season.”

Wordsworth, who was released by Ipswich Town at the end of the previous campaign, has now flown out to Spain for the start of pre-season training with the Shrimpers.

And the 26-year-old revealed it was Brown who convinced him to come to Roots Hall.

“As soon as I sat down to speak to the manager here I knew I wanted to play for him,” said Wordsworth.

“I know some of the lads who are already here and they all speak very highly of the club.

“Through knowing them I’ve also been to watch a few of the games so I know the club and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Wordsworth came through the youth system at Colchester United and scored 35 goals in 199 games.

But the midfielder’s auntie and cousin are both Shrimpers supporters and cannot wait to see him in action at Roots Hall.

“I have family who live in Southend and they come to all of the matches,” said Wordsworth, who can play anywhere in midfield.

“I think they’re just as excited as I am about it all to be honest but I’m really pleased to have got it all done because we have been talking for about three weeks now.”