FORMER Southend United goalkeeper Andy Woodman still keeps one eye on the Shrimpers - due to his coaching role at Arsenal.

Woodman made 19 appearances for the Shrimpers while on loan in 2000 but is now helping others to become top goalkeepers.

And that means he is fully aware of what is happening at Roots Hall.

“I’m head of goalkeeping at Arsenal now so we’re always looking for the next young goalkeeper coming through and Southend has a great record with goalkeepers in their ranks,” said Woodman.

“I keep an eye on all my old clubs anyway but I do pay extra attention to Southend because of the keepers there and I’m aware there’s another young one coming through in Harry Seaden, who has been doing well.

“I know things aren’t going as well there right now but I do hope that changes because I really enjoyed my time there and felt as though I had a good rapport with the fans.”

Woodman went on to make close to 500 appearances during his career.

And he could well have gone on to make even more for the Shrimpers, had there not been a change of management.

“When I signed Alan Little was the manager and it was going to turn into more than a loan,” said Woodman.

“But he went and was replaced by David Webb who seemed to have a different remit. I think he had to cut down the budget so he offered me about £1.50 a week to stay so I ended up moving on.

“But I really did enjoy it there. It’s a good club and it was a fun place to be.”

However, Woodman’s association with the Shrimpers did not end there.

“I’ve known Chris Powell since I was about 15 and I know Stan Collymore as well,” said Woodman.

“But I enjoyed my time with Oxford as well so I wish both teams a happy draw at the weekend.”

Woodman’s son Freddie also grew up in the England ranks with former Blues goalkeeper Ted Smith. But Freddie is currently on loan at Swansea City from Newcastle United and Woodman is proud of his progress.

“He’s doing much better than I ever did but he’s still very young,” said Woodman.

“It’s great to see him doing well but goalkeeper is a very tough position to play.”