MICHAEL Timlin is keen to help talented youngster Dru Yearwood to keep on shining for Southend United.

The 17-year-old midfielder has caught the eye in the centre of the park during pre-season.

And Timlin will now be doing all he can to ensure Yearwood continues to impress.

“I want to keep playing but the age I’m at now I’ll also be doing all I can to help Dru get in the first team because that’s what this club needs, young players coming through,” said the 32-year-old.

“I watched Dru in the youth team last season and he was doing really well so it wasn’t a surprise he came to Spain with the first team for the start of pre-season.

“It was really good from the manager and I think it might originally have been to give him a taste of what it’s like before going back into the reserves.

“But he was so good in Spain that he’s stayed with us and all the senior boys really like him because he works hard and is willing to learn.

“We have a few youngsters coming through like Michael Klass, Renei Batlokwa and Joe Bedford who probably need a chance but you have to single out Dru because he’s the youngest.”

Yearwood’s next opportunity to impress will come against Brighton tonight.

But Timlin wants the youngster - who has been offered a four-year professional deal at Roots Hall - to keep his feet on the ground.

“I really hope Dru keeps his head down and doesn’t get frustrated if he’s not playing,” said Timlin.

“He needs to try not to listen to the hype as well but I know the fans are going to be excited.

“We just don’t want to hype him up too much because then someone might come and nick him and we want him in our first team.”

However, Timlin also remains determined to impress for the Shrimpers and play a part in Phil Brown’s side pushing for promotion.

“We want to be at the top but we know it will be a very tough league,” said Timlin.

“Teams will expect us to be there now after last season but may think we might fall away.

“We’re determined to be at the top even though it’s a very tough league this year and we’re not just looking for the play-offs.

“Of course I want to play a part but my main aim is to stay fit and be available for selection.”

And Timlin will also not be dwelling on the red card he received at Braintree Town at the start of pre-season.

“Things happen and you can’t dwell on it,” said Timlin.

“You have to get on with things and it won’t affect me.”