SOUTHEND United’s head of youth Ricky Duncan has moved to keep goalkeeper Nathan Bishop and midfielder Dru Yearwood at the club for an extra season.

The duo have impressed in both the Shrimpers’ under 18s and under 21s this term.

And that prompted Duncan into action.

“For the first time ever in my time at the club we’ve offered two players the third year of their scholarship during their first year but Nathan and Dru both deserve it,” said Duncan.

“They have both shown they have the kind of qualities we want so there was no point in waiting to make this decision.

“Their performances have warranted this being done but they both know they will need to keep on working hard to get to where they want to be.”

Bishop was in fine form to help Blues’ under 18s see off Bristol Rovers 2-0 in their final game of the season on Saturday.

And Duncan remains delighted by the progress being made within the academy.

“When I first came back to the club we released 52 players which is virtually unheard of but we’ve just had our release and retain night and this year we’ve only let five boys go,” said Duncan.

“I think that shows we’re happy with how things are going but of course we want to keep pushing on and keep developing more players.

“It’s been great to see Elvis (Bwomono) pushing on this season.

“But we want more to be doing that and to also be pushing to get into the first team squad.”