SOUTHEND United are to face Premier League newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion in a pre-season friendly in July.

The Seagulls, who finished second in the Championship, will visit Roots Hall on Tuesday July 25.

And Blues boss Phil Brown is looking forward to facing the Sussex side.

“I’m delighted to have organised the game with Brighton and it will be good to test ourselves against a Premier League side,” said Brown.

“We have a great relationship with their manager Chris Hughton and Brian Horton obviously knows a lot of people there too.

“I think it’s going to be a good time to play them and we hope to be facing another Premier League side that Saturday too.”

Blues have also announced a trio of away friendlies at Braintree Town, on July 15, Bishops Stortford on July 18 and Ebbsfleet United on July 22.