JAMES Olayinka believes his loan switch to Southend United will enable him to grow as a footballer.

The 20-year-old midfielder will be with the Shrimpers from Arsenal until the end of January.

And Olayinka is confident being with Blues will be beneficial for his career, despite their poor start to the season.

“I’m very pleased and very excited to be here,” said Olayinka.

“It’s a good place for me to continue my career and a good place for me to grow as a young footballer too.

“It’s also a good opportunity to get more minutes and more experience.”

Olayinka was unable to feature in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Cheltenham Town.

But the youngster watched from the stands and feels the Shrimpers’ style will suit his own game.

“After watching them at the start of the season and even last season as well the way they play is the way I think football should be played and they keep the ball on the ground,” said Olayinka.

“They pass and move and look to attack and score goals and that’s something I can help the team with.”

Olayinka will be looking to make his debut against Salford City on Tuesday night.

And he is looking forward to working with Blues boss Mark Molesley.

“He had success at Bournemouth and I’m sure he will here too,” said Olayinka.

“As a young player it’s good to have a manager who has worked with other young players and knows what to do.

“It will be good to learn under him.”

But Olayinka already knows what to expect from League Two having finished last season on loan at Northampton Town who won promotion via the play offs.

“It’s difficult but it’s a good experience,” said Olayinka on life in League Two.

“At this level every game is different and some games require different parts of your game to come out.

“That’s something I will adapt to but the spell I had at Northampton will definitely stand me in good stead and I can’t wait to get started.”