SOUTHEND United’s youth team chief Ricky Duncan loves it when a plan comes together.

And it did just that as Roland Benedict – son of A-Team star Dirk, who played “Face” – helped his Under-18 side to a 7-1 thrashing of a Queens Park Rangers Development XI at Boots and Laces.

And American Benedict, who featured on SKY Sports Soccer AM show on Saturday morning, impressed his new coach.

“The Football League sent us an email informing us that Roland was looking for a trial,” said Duncan.

“We are seen as a progressive club and we like to look at players from all walks of life all the time so we thought why not.

“He has spent a week with us so far and to be fair to him he has done well.

“Roland played the second half against QPR and showed us he has two good feet so we will see how he progresses.

“His dad was at the game and he likes the Southend area.

“He should be coming down to see how he is getting on again soon.”

The 18-year-old’s arrival has excited the Blues young side who have been quick to point out how their captain Davis Abbey resembles another A team star.

“Davis looks like Mr T so we have been trying to get him to come in with all the gold chains on and everything,” joked Duncan. He’s not been having any of it so far so we’ve all been pitying the fool.”

Goals from Craig Calver, Fredrik Ljungstrom, Joel Mitchell, Kyle Asante, Jamie Dennis and a brace from Harry Crawford secured a comfortablevictory for the Shrimpers.