SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown insists Charlie Sayers is already pushing to be Blues’ first choice left-back.

The 17-year-old has impressed during pre-season for the Shrimpers.

And Brown believes Sayers is already in contention for a place in his starting line-up.

“I’ve been more than impressed by Charlie and he’s pushing Nathan Ralph and Tom Clifford for being first choice left-back already,” said Brown.

“He’s had a steep learning curve coming from non-league but he’s done well.

"He's gone from the 18s to the 23s to the first team but it shows where we are that I couldn't do the defensive work I wanted to yesterday because he was at college!"

Sayers, who has played for Billericay Town and Bowers & Pitsea, was with Blues in his youth before returning to Roots Hall on a permanent basis after impressing while on trial in the summer.

The youngster is based in Wickford and attended Beauchamps School along with ex Blues striker Kenny Coker who is now with Norwich City.