SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell was pleased to give youth a chance at Sunderland on Saturday.

The former England international brought on young strikers Emile Acquah and Matt Rush - for his first team debut -  in the second half.

And Campbell was happy to bring on the attacking duo. 

"We had youngsters coming on and it was good for Emile and Rushy to get on," said Campbell.

"They’ve done well in the under 23s and it’s good we can utilise the youth system.

They’re lively, bright, they want to learn and they’re good players.

"I enjoy it when they come in because they show desire and that’s what it’s all about.

"We’re not bringing them on for the sake of it either, we’re bringing them on because they can contribute."