SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown was happy with the impact Josh Wright made on his first Shrimpers start.

Wright played 75 minutes for Blues’ under 23s in their 1-0 win at Barnet.

And Brown was delighted with what he saw from the 27-year-old.

“Josh did really well and I was very happy with what I saw from him,” said the Blues boss.

“He could have trained with the first team but he volunteered to play in the game at Barnet and it kept things ticking over nicely for him.

“He had a positive impact on the pitch with the young kids we had out and he also showed excellent energy levels.

“Barnet had a decent side out so it was a good test but I know even more about what Josh will be bringing to the team on Saturday, if he’s selected.”

Wright completed a free transfer switch to the Shrimpers at the weekend following his release from Gillingham at the end of August.

And Brown has also been boosted by Wright’s fitness levels.

“Josh played four games for Gillingham at the start of the season and, although he hasn’t played for a month now, his fitness levels are still good,” said the 58-year-old.

“He’s shown that in training and he showed it in the game as well so I’m delighted.

“I got what I wanted to see and the way he played is music to my ears.”

Wright will now be in contention for his first team debut at Fleetwood Town this weekend as the Shrimpers look to end their nine game winless streak.