FREDDY Eastwood has revealed how his time at Southend United was the most enjoyable of his career.

The prolific striker bagged 49 goals to help the Shrimpers secure two successive promotions.

And, speaking at the Havens Hospices event, Eastwood admitted his spell at Roots Hall was the favourite of his career.

“For me it was all new at the time, but it was great and when I look back now I realise just how special it was,” said Eastwood.

“I went on to play for some big clubs and for Wales as well, but I have to say it was that spell at Southend which was the most enjoyable for me.

“Playing for the gaffer and being with that group of lads was really special and we had so many great times together.”

But Eastwood also revealed how manager Steve Tilson had to stop him playing too many pranks.

“James Lawson had left my car on the big sandpit so I had to get my own back,” said Eastwood.

“I managed to find his car when he was playing for the reserves, pulled a few bits apart and hid a load of fish in there!

“He couldn’t find where it was and I had forgotten where I put them after a while so I think he might have got rid of the car.

“But in the end the manager had to tell us to stop!”