SOUTHEND United captain Adam Barrett is to open up a new programme for budding young footballers.

The scheme - which is available for those aged between 16 and 19 - opens at Hockley’s Greensward Academy next September.

And Barrett - who will be helping to run the course with his PFA Academy - hopes to be able to attract a number of top young players.

“We’re going to run this very professionally and those coming in will be training every day and will be having matches too,” said Barrett.

“We have a designated coach who will be taking the sessions and I’ll be coming down as much as possible as well.

“It’s something we’re really looking forward to and hopefully it will prove to be popular too.

“Everyone will combine the football with their studies.

“But they will also be taught all about nutrition and sports science so it will be of huge benefit for them.”

Barrett will soon be holding trial days for anyone wanting to join the scheme.

For more details contact the Greensward Academy direct or email Barrett on adambarrett26@icloud.com.

Barrett is currently enjoying his second spell with the Shrimpers.

The defender has now made more than 350 appearances for his home-town club.